Cellular and microbial biomolecules via non-specific oxidative reactions

Cellular and microbial biomolecules via non-specific oxidative reactions refers to the broad set of biological macromolecules—including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids—that are chemically modified by oxidizing agents (CDC, 2008). This target is the primary focus of antiseptics and disinfectants such as hydrogen peroxide, benzoyl peroxide, and povidone-iodine, which release reactive oxygen species or act as strong oxidants (StatPearls, 2023). The interaction involves the non-specific oxidation of critical functional groups, such as the conversion of thiol groups to disulfides in enzymes and the peroxidation of membrane lipids, which disrupts cellular homeostasis and leads to rapid microbial death (PubMed, 2018). While highly effective for topical infection control and sterilization, the non-selective nature of these reactions means that host cells are also susceptible to damage (NIH, 2021). This can result in clinical safety concerns such as localized tissue irritation or impaired healing of open wounds if the concentration of the oxidizing agent is too high.

Other names

Microbial macromoleculesCellular proteins, lipids, and nucleic acidsOxidative stress substratesBacterial cell wall and cytoplasmic components

Non-specific oxidation of essential molecular components, including the oxidation of sulfhydryl groups in proteins, peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids in lipids, and oxidative damage to nitrogenous bases in nucleic acids, leading to denaturation and cell lysis.