The effect of super-oxidized water on Escherichia coli.

The mechanism of action of Sterilox, a non-toxic liquid biocide produced by electrolysis of a dilute saline solution, upon planktonic cells of Escherichia coli JM109 was investigated using protein and nucleic acid analysis. The results revealed total destruction of chromosomal and plasmid DNA, RNA and proteins of E. coli within 5 min of exposure. Our earlier investigation conducted using atomic force microscopy imaging revealed swelling and rupture of E. coli cells with release of cytoplasm. We propose that the biocidal properties of Sterilox are due to its effect upon constituents of the bacterial cell including proteins and nucleic acids. Copyright 2000 The Hospital Infection Society.