Ion channels and G protein-coupled receptors as targets for invertebrate pest control: from past challenges to practical insecticides

ABSTRACT In the late 1970s, we discovered that toxic bicyclic phosphates inhibit generation of miniature inhibitory junction potentials, implying their antagonism ?-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors (GABARs; GABA-gated chloride channels). This unique mode action provided a strong incentive for our research on GABARs in later years. Furthermore, minor structural changes conferred insect GABAR selectivity to this class compounds, convincing us possibility as targets insecticides. Forty years later, third-generation insecticides acting allosteric modulator antagonists at distinctive site were developed. G protein-coupled (GPCRs) are also promising pest control. We characterized phenolamine functionally and pharmacologically. Of tested receptors, ?-adrenergic-like octopamine revealed be most sensitive acaricide/insecticide amitraz. Given presence multiple sites action, ion channels GPCRs remain potential invertebrate