Bacterial cells

Bacterial cells are the primary target of nitric oxide (NO) and its donors when used as antimicrobial agents. The mechanism of action involves the induction of extensive macromolecular damage through both oxidative and nitrosative stress pathways. NO is a highly reactive free radical that can diffuse across bacterial membranes and react with oxygen or superoxide to form reactive nitrogen species (RNS) like peroxynitrite and dinitrogen trioxide. These species cause lethal damage to vital bacterial macromolecules, including the deamination of DNA bases, peroxidation of membrane lipids, and the inactivation of essential proteins through the nitrosylation of thiols or the disruption of iron-sulfur clusters. This broad-spectrum mechanism is particularly effective against antibiotic-resistant strains and biofilms, as it targets multiple cellular components simultaneously, making the development of resistance difficult. Clinically, NO is explored for treating chronic respiratory infections in cystic fibrosis and for promoting the healing of infected wounds. However, therapeutic use requires careful monitoring of methemoglobin levels and systemic blood pressure to avoid toxicity.

Other names

BacteriaBacterial pathogensBacterial biofilmsProkaryotic cells

Nitric oxide (NO) and its reactive nitrogen species (RNS) derivatives induce bactericidal effects by causing extensive damage to essential macromolecules, including DNA deamination, lipid peroxidation, and the nitrosylation or oxidation of critical proteins and enzymes such as ribonucleotide reductase and iron-sulfur cluster-containing proteins.