Anthranilic diamides: A new class of insecticides with a novel mode of action, ryanodine receptor activation

Development of insecticides with unique modes of action is necessary to combat widespread insecticide resistance. A new class of insecticides has been discovered, the anthranilic diamides, that provides exceptional control through action on a novel target, the ryanodine receptor. Anthranilic diamides potently activate this receptor, releasing stored calcium from the sarcoendoplasmic reticulum causing impaired regulation of muscle contraction. Expression of a recombinant Drosophila ryanodine receptor in a lepidopteran cell line confers sensitivity to anthranilic diamides similar to that observed with native receptors. Ligand-binding studies with radiolabeled ryanodine and radiolabeled anthranilic diamide in Periplaneta americana reveal a single, saturable binding site for this chemistry distinct from that of ryanodine. Further, calcium mobilization studies using mammalian cell lines indicate anthranilic diamides exhibit >500-fold differential selectivity toward insect, over mammalian, receptors. Consequently, anthranilic diamides offer a novel pharmacological tool for calcium signaling research in addition to a unique alternative to existing pest-management strategies.