Alpha-terthienyl: A plant-derived new generation insecticide

Alpha-terthienyl, a naturally occurring secondary plant metabolite is found in abundance in the roots of Tagetes species (family Asterasceae). It is activated by ultraviolet light and is toxic to a number of insect species. It generates oxygen radical species and has capacity to inhibit several enzymes like both in vivo and in vitro. Alpha-terthienyl possesses all the desirable properties of a good insecticide/pesticide. It is fast acting, non-toxic, economic and a property of degradation makes it more user friendly and safe. Secondary plant metabolites will play an important role in future insecticide development programme.