hypothiocyanite

**Hypothiocyanite** is the anion OSCN^− and the conjugate base of hypothiocyanous acid (HOSCN). It is a naturally occurring antimicrobial generated in mammalian secretions (saliva, lung, milk) by the enzymatic reaction of lactoperoxidase or other mammalian peroxidases with thiocyanate and hydrogen peroxide. Its primary mechanism is potent oxidative bactericidal activity: it selectively oxidizes sulfhydryl (thiol, –SH) groups in bacterial proteins, leading to membrane disruption, impaired transport, and death. Mammalian (host) cells are resistant due to the activity of selenocysteine-containing thioredoxin reductase, which rapidly reduces HOSCN/OSCN^− to non-toxic products. Hypothiocyanite has been investigated for use as an alternative antibiotic, for food preservation, oral hygiene, and for potential benefit in diseases with impaired mucosal immunity like cystic fibrosis. It is not an antibiotic (does not target specific bacterial processes) but is considered a safe, non-mutagenic antimicrobial oxidant.

Brand names

Osceaun

Other names

hypothiocyanite ionOSCN-cyanosulfoxylate[OSCN]^−^63296-34-4