ABSTRACT
Antibacterial activity of polycationic biocides is reviewed in connection with their interaction with their target site, the cytoplasmic membranes of bacteria. The mode of action of low molecular weight cationic disinfectants is first described with reference to the structure of the bacterial cell envelope and then that of the polycationic biocides is discussed on the basis of elementary processes proposed for the low molecular weight analogues. The polycationic biocides discussed include quaternary ammonium salts and biguanides, which are used almost exclusively for disinfection. Application of the polycationic biocides to a variety of fields, such as immobilized biocides and self-sterilizing materials, is finally described.
