Ionophore

Ionophores catalyze ion transport across hydrophobic membranes, such as liquid polymeric membranes (carrier-based ion selective electrodes) or lipid bilayers found in the living cells or synthetic vesicles (liposomes).

[4] Many ionophores are produced naturally by a variety of microbes, fungi and plants, and act as a defense against competing or pathogenic species.

[11] Ionophores are chemical compounds that reversibly bind and transport ions through biological membranes in the absence of a protein pore.

[1] Ionophores modify the permeability of biological membranes toward certain ions to which they show affinity and selectivity.

The hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity of the complex also determines whether it will slow down or ease the transport of metal ions into cell compartments.

The reduction potential of a metal complex influences its thermodynamic stability and affects its reactivity.

[16][17] A large amount of research has been directed toward investigating novel antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antioxidant and neuroprotective properties of different ionophores.

[16] It also serves as an anti-fouling agent in paints to cover and protect surfaces against mildew and algae.

[26] Hinokitiol (ß-thujaplicin) is used in commercial products for skin, hair and oral care, insect repellents and deodorants.

[31] Polyene antimycotics, such as nystatin, natamycin and amphotericin B, are a subgroup of macrolides and are widely used antifungal and antileishmanial medications.

[32] Carboxylic ionophores, i.e. monensin, lasalocid, salinomycin, narasin, maduramicin, semduramycin and laidlomycin, are marketed globally and widely used as anticoccidial feed additives to prevent and treat coccidiosis in poultry.

[33] Some of these compounds have also been used as growth and production promoters in certain ruminants, such as cattle, and chickens, however this use has been mainly restricted because of safety issues.