Copper as a Biocidal Tool

Authors: Borkow, Gadi; Gabbay, Jeffrey

Source: Current Medicinal Chemistry, Volume 12, Number 18, August 2005 , pp. 2163-2175(13)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

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Abstract:

Copper ions, either alone or in copper complexes, have been used to disinfect liquids, solids and human tissue for centuries. Today copper is used as a water purifier, algaecide, fungicide, nematocide, molluscicide as well as an antibacterial and anti-fouling agent. Copper also displays potent anti-viral activity. This article reviews (i) the biocidal properties of copper; (ii) the possible mechanisms by which copper is toxic to microorganisms; and (iii) the systems by which many microorganisms resist high concentrations of heavy metals, with an emphasis on copper.

Keywords: bacteriostatic; gram-negative organisms; electroplated coatings; copper-impregnated fabrics; water purifier; antiviral; oxidizing agents; cell membrane; cell viability

Document Type: Review article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/0929867054637617

Affiliations: 1: Hameyasdim 44, Kfar Gibton 76910, Israel.

Publication date: 2005-08-01

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Current Medicinal Chemistry covers all the latest and outstanding developments in medicinal chemistry and rational drug design. Each issue contains a series of timely in-depth reviews written by leaders in the field covering a range of the current topics in medicinal chemistry. Current Medicinal Chemistry is an essential journal for every medicinal chemist who wishes to be kept informed and up-to-date with the latest and most important developments.