Systematically evaluation of the metabolism, distribution and effect of imidacloprid in Chinese lizards (Eremias argus) were carried out following oral exposure. Imidacloprid-olefin-guanidine was prone to accumulate in the brain and caused potential neurotoxicity. Percutaneous and excretory excretions were the primary ways for the elimination of imidacloprid and its metabolites. Liver was the main site for hydroxy reduction and nitro-reduction metabolism of imidacloprid. The metabolism of imidacloprid was a complex process in which many metabolic enzymes participated. Aldehyde oxidase and CYP2C9 were the key enzymes in nitro-reduction process. CYP3A4 dominated the process of hydroxylation and desaturation. The increase in Glutathione S-transferase expression may be related to the removal of imidacloprid, but also related to the oxidative stress reaction that imidacloprid may cause in tissues, especially in the kidney. The findings enrich and supplement the knowledge of the environmental fate of imidacloprid in reptiles.
Keywords: Distribution; Eremias argus; Imidacloprid; Metabolism.
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