AbstractThe eukaryotic cell membrane is thought to consist of a mobile bilayer of phospholipid, sometimes intercalated with sterols, in which peripheral and transmembrane proteins are embedded. This provides a model whereby the mode of action of many fungicidal and herbicidal compounds can be rationalised and understood. Some compounds, such as the polyene antibiotics, steroidal saponins and certain phytoalexins, induce membrane malfunction by direct insertion, often complexing with vital components. Others, such as paraquat and the nitrodiphenyl ether herbicides, cause membrane damage by inducing lipid peroxidations. Furthermore, there are many compounds, including the sterol‐biosynthesis‐inhibiting fungicides and the aryloxyphenoxypropionate and cyclohexanedione herbicides, which interfere with the biosynthesis of membrane components. Because membrane structure is fundamentally similar in eukaryotes, it is important to discover the reasons for any differential toxicity displayed by these compounds and, if necessary, to find ways of optimising desirable patterns of selectiv
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