Gadi Borkow and Jeffrey Gabbay Pages 2163 - 2175 ( 13 )
Copper ions, either alone or in copper complexes, have been used to disinfect liquids, solids and human tissue for centuries. Today copper is used as a water purifier, algaecide, fungicide, nematocide, molluscicide as well as an antibacterial and anti-fouling agent. Copper also displays potent anti-viral activity. This article reviews (i) the biocidal properties of copper; (ii) the possible mechanisms by which copper is toxic to microorganisms; and (iii) the systems by which many microorganisms resist high concentrations of heavy metals, with an emphasis on copper.
bacteriostatic,gram-negative organisms,electroplated coatings,copper-impregnated fabrics,water purifier,antiviral,oxidizing agents,cell membrane,cell viability
, Hameyasdim 44, Kfar Gibton 76910, Israel.