Oligodynamic effect
Toxic effect of metal ions on living cells
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Key Takeaways
- The oligodynamic effect (from Greek oligos , "few", and dynamis , "force") is a biocidal effect of metals, especially heavy metals, that occurs even in low concentrations.
- In modern times, the effect was observed by Carl Nägeli, although he did not identify the cause.
- Mechanism The metals react with thiol (-SH) or amine (-NH (1,2,3) ) groups of proteins, a mode of action to which microorganisms may develop resistance.
- List of uses Aluminium Aluminium has been found to compete with iron and magnesium and bind to DNA, membranes, or cell walls, leading to its toxic effect on microbes, such as cyanobacteria, soil bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi.
- Antimony Orthoesters of diarylstibinic acids are fungicides and bactericides, used in paints, plastics, and fibers.
The oligodynamic effect (from Greek oligos, "few", and dynamis, "force") is a biocidal effect of metals, especially heavy metals, that occurs even in low concentrations. This effect is attributed to the antibacterial behavior of metal ions, which are absorbed by bacteria upon contact and damage their cell membranes.
In modern times, the effect was observed by Carl Nägeli, although he did not identify the cause. Brass doorknobs, brass handrails, and silverware all exhibit this effect to an extent.
Mechanism
The metals react with thiol (-SH) or amine (-NH(1,2,3)) groups of proteins, a mode of action to which microorganisms may develop resistance. Such resistance may be transmitted by plasmids.
List of uses
Aluminium
Aluminium has been found to compete with iron and magnesium and bind to DNA, membranes, or cell walls, leading to its toxic effect on microbes, such as cyanobacteria, soil bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi.
Aluminium triacetate (Burow's solution) is used as an astringent mild antiseptic.
Antimony
Orthoesters of diarylstibinic acids are fungicides and bactericides, used in paints, plastics, and fibers. Trivalent organic antimony was used in therapy for schistosomiasis.
Arsenic
Arsenic was historically used to treat syphilis, and is still used in sheep dips, rat poisons, wood preservatives, weed killers, and other pesticides. Arsenic is poisonous to humans.
Barium
Barium polysulfide is a fungicide and acaricide used in fruit and grape growing.
Bismuth
Bismuth has been used to treat syphilis and malaria and is still used in vulnerary salves, vulnerary powders, and antimycotics.
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