Assessment of bio-efficacy and genotoxicity of commercial insecticides and their nanoemulsion counterparts against cotton leafworm, Spodoptera littoralis

The purpose of this study is to develop nanoemulsions from commercial organophosphate insecticides and evaluate their efficacy toward Spodoptera littoralis. The nanoemulsions with uniform particle sizes, had average sizes of 255.8, 259.9, and 206.7 nm for Dora 48% (CPF), Deleron 50% (PFFd), and Teliton-s 72% (PFFt), respectively. Nanoemulsion forms were more effective against S. littoralis larvae than their commercial formulations by 33.90 to 62.15%. Also, they inhibited acetylcholinesterase and glutathione-S-transferase more than normal formulations. As for genotoxic effects, different mutagenic endpoints were used: the chromosomal aberrations assay, mitotic index, micronucleus test, and morphological sperm abnormalities. The study highlighted the potential benefits of nanoemulsion formulations in reducing genotoxic and reproductive toxicity compared with conventional insecticides and enhancing their bio-efficacy. Developing innovative nanoformulations that could mitigate the adverse effects of traditional pesticides on ecosystem attributes and bring about a transformative revolution in the agricultural sector. However, further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and environmental implications of nanoemulsion insecticides.