Microbial cell membrane

The term "Microbial cell membrane disruption by released silver ion" refers to a well-characterized mode of action, not to a discrete molecular target or receptor. Silver ions (Ag^+) released from silver-containing compounds or nanoparticles interact with microbial (bacterial) cell membranes by adhering to and penetrating the membrane, thereby increasing membrane permeability and disrupting its integrity[1][3][4][5]. This leads to loss of vital ions (e.g., potassium), leakage of metabolites, depolarization, and impairment of ATP synthesis. Silver ions also interact with sulfur-containing proteins and nucleic acids inside the cell, causing additional cellular dysfunction through enzyme inhibition, protein denaturation, and ROS generation, ultimately leading to cell death[1][4][5][6]. While the microbial cell membrane is the major structural target affected, it is not a druggable protein or biomolecular entity, but rather a functional site or process targeted by silver ions. Note on suitability as a target: "Microbial cell membrane disruption by released silver ion" is not a canonical molecule or receptor but is instead a descriptive process/mechanism. Standard target naming conventions focus on defined molecules (e.g., enzymes, channels, receptors) rather than entire cellular structures or mechanistic events. If a more structured target is required for data consistency, consider annotating the "microbial cell membrane" or specific membrane proteins (e.g., porins like OmpF/OmpC in E. coli[2][4]) as the direct molecular target.

Other names

Bacterial cell membraneMicrobial plasma membraneProkaryotic cell membraneBacterial cytoplasmic membrane

Disruption of microbial cell membrane integrity by released silver ions (Ag^+) Increased membrane permeability leading to leakage of cellular contents Depolarization of membrane potential Inhibition and denaturation of membrane-bound enzymes Generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to oxidative damage Interaction with membrane proteins (e.g. OmpF and OmpC)