Mode of action of hydrogen peroxide and other oxidizing agents: differences between liquid and gas forms

Abstract

These results provide a comprehensive understanding of the differences in interactions between a number of oxidizing agents and macromolecules commonly found in microbial cells. Biochemical mechanistic differences between these oxidative biocides do exist and lead to differential effects on macromolecules. This in turn could provide an explanation as to their differences in biocidal activity, particularly between liquid and gas peroxide.

Gas plasma sterilization of microorganisms and mechanisms of action

“…Once effective processes have been developed to apply plasma technology safely, effectively and practically, then commercial success can be achieved (19). Plasma technology has many advantages, such as broad spectrum antimicrobial activity (including effects against problematic biomolecules, such as prions and endotoxins), ease of generation, and environmental safety profiles in comparison to other thermal-and chemical-based technologies.…”

“…Similar differences in efficacy have been reported for other sporicidal agents, even though they may be using the same biocide. For example, in the case of hydrogen peroxide, the mechanisms of action of hydrogen peroxide in a true gas form appear to be different from those of liquid or condensed peroxide (18,19). the gas form appears to primarily target the peptide bonds of proteins, leading to protein degradation; by contrast, the liquid form preferably oxidizes the amino acid side chains of the same proteins, which appears to result in cross-linking and protein clumping.…”

<i>Lactobacillus</i> sp.—A Threat to Pathogenic Microorganisms and Tumor Cells

“…Oxidative biocides like H 2 O 2 are reported to have multiple targets within a cell and the biomolecules present in the cells. The action includes disruption of membrane layers, enzyme inhibition, impaired energy production, oxidation of nucleosides, disruption of protein synthesis and finally cell death [69]. Other metabolites like lactic acid, acetic acid also exerts some basal mechanisms.…”

Honey, a Gift from Nature to Health and Beauty: A Review

“…As hydrogen peroxide is a reactive oxygen species, its antibacterial action occurs through damaging the cell structure of the bacteria (Brudzynski 2006). The damaging action highly depends on the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the honey (Brudzynski 2006;Finnegan et al 2010).…”