The molecular mechanisms of copper and silver ion disinfection of bacteria and viruses

Disinfection due to copper or silver ions may result from action at the cell or capsid protein surface or on the nucleic acid of cells or viruses. Metals may alter enzyme structure and function or facilitate hydrolysis or nucleophilic displacement. The means by which cells may reduce the toxic effect of metal ions include: biomethylation, complexation with metallothionen, development of efflux pumps, the binding of metal ions to cell surfaces, and the removal of metal ions by precipitation. The phenomenon of “multiplicity of reactivation” may reduce the effect of a disinfectant on a virus by allowing a clump of partially inactivated viruses to produce a productive infection in a susceptible cell. Conditions which may affect metal ion‐biomolecule interaction include: pH, ionic strength, temperature, dissolved oxygen, presence of interfering substances or light, the chemical form and valency of the metal ion, and the condition of the microorganisms.