Multiple microbial and host-cell macromolecules

Multiple microbial and host-cell macromolecules is a pharmacological designation for the broad array of biological components targeted by non-specific antimicrobial agents, such as antiseptics and disinfectants (DrugBank DB06812). This target group includes essential proteins, enzymes, lipids, and nucleic acids found in both pathogenic microorganisms and host tissues (StatPearls, Antiseptics and Disinfectants). Agents interacting with these macromolecules, including povidone-iodine, hydrogen peroxide, and silver nitrate, do not utilize specific receptor-binding sites but instead initiate rapid chemical reactions like oxidation, halogenation, or alkylation (PubChem, CID 4100872). These reactions lead to the widespread denaturation of structural proteins and the inactivation of metabolic enzymes, effectively neutralizing bacteria, viruses, and fungi (NIH, Mechanism of Action of Iodine). Due to the non-selective nature of these interactions, these agents can also damage host cells, which typically limits their clinical application to topical use on skin or wounds and the disinfection of inanimate surfaces (PubMed, PMID 29067632). This multi-target mechanism is highly effective at preventing the emergence of microbial resistance, as it would require simultaneous mutations across numerous essential cellular pathways.

Other names

Microbial and host-cell macromoleculesCellular macromoleculesMicrobial proteins, lipids, and nucleic acidsHost-cell proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids

Non-specific oxidation, halogenation, or alkylation of various cellular components including proteins, enzymes, and nucleic acids, leading to denaturation and cell death.