Biochem/physiol Actions Inhibitor of mitochondrial electron transport at NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase. It is readily absorbed through the exoskeletons of arthropods, but poorly absorbed cutaneously or from the gastrointestinal tract of mammals. Rotenone is used to induce a Parkinson-like syndrome as an experimental model in rats. Inhibitor of mitochondrial electron transport. Neurotoxic agent that can produce a Parkinson-like condition as an animal model for study of etiology and interventions.