Neurasthenic fatigue [NA], chemical sensitivity & GABAa receptor toxins

Following observation of fatigue syndromes in people who have been

occupationally exposed to pesticides and insecticides which

exert their toxicity through the GABAa receptor, we have

formulated the hypothesis that fatigue syndromes in general

may be secondary to altered sensitivity of the GABAa receptor.

We discuss the possible involvement of organochlorine

compounds which are widespread in the environment.

Organophosphate compounds may have similar toxic effects

through damaged cholinergic input to the dentate gyrus of the

hippocampus where cholinergic and GABAergic transmission are

closely linked.

Corrigan FM, MacDonald S, Brown A, Armstrong K, Armstrong EM