An
organophosphate (sometimes abbreviated
OP) or
phosphate ester is the general name for
esters of
phosphoric acid. Many of the most important biochemicals are organophosphates, including
DNA and
RNA, as well as many of the
cofactors essential for life. Organophosphates are the basis of many
insecticides,
herbicides, and
nerve agents. The United States Environmental Protection Agency lists organophosphates as very highly acutely toxic to bees, wildlife, and humans. Recent studies suggest a possible link to adverse effects in the neurobehavioral development of fetuses and children, even at very low levels of exposure. Organophosphates are widely used as
solvents,
plasticizers, and
EP additives.
