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Mycobacterial Diseases

Mycobacterial Diseases
Open Access

ISSN: 2161-1068

+44 1478 350008

Abstract

Copper Oxidation State and Mycobacterial Infection

Marc Solioz

Copper in aerobic environments prevails as cupric ions, Cu2+, but inside cells, is usually present as cuprous ions, Cu+. Cu+ is considerably more toxic to bacteria than Cu2+. Phagosomes employ, among other mechanisms, Cu+ to create a hostile environment for engulfed bacteria. Bacteria can reduce or oxidize copper by various mechanisms. How such reactions could affect bacterial survival in phagosomes is discussed, with a focus onMycobacteria.

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