Decreased activity of acetylcholine esterase as a biomarker of pesticide exposure in female tea plantation workers.

This article focuses on evaluating the inhibition of acetylcholine esterase (AChE) activity and associated health effects in female tea plantation workers (TPW) exposed to pesticides in Assam, India. The study found significantly reduced AChE activity in TPW compared to non-tea plantation workers, correlating with symptoms such as cough, fatigue, and headache. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations identified three pesticides—λ-cyhalothrin, fipronil, and fenazaquine—as having higher binding affinity to AChE than its natural substrate acetylcholine, suggesting these chemicals may contribute more substantially to enzyme inhibition and adverse health outcomes. The research highlights the potential of AChE activity as a biomarker for pesticide exposure and underscores the need for protective measures and antidote development to mitigate health risks among agricultural workers.