Nickel-based Enzymes and Compounds: Antimicrobial Potential, Biomedical Applications, and Toxicity Risks

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Nickel-dependent enzymes are crucial metalloenzymes in various organisms, particularly microbes.
• Nine such enzymes involved in redox and non-redox reactions are known.
• These enzymes are targets for new strategies against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review nickel-based compounds, their enzymatic roles, and biological functions.
• To analyze antimicrobial mechanisms and applications of nickel compounds.
• To assess the associated toxicities of nickel compounds in medical and dental contexts.

Main Methods:

• Systematic compilation and analysis of current literature.
• Focus on enzymatic roles, biological functions, and antimicrobial mechanisms.
• Evaluation of medical/dental applications and toxicological profiles.

Main Results:

• Nickel-dependent enzymes like hydrogenases and urease are key targets for combating resistant bacteria.
• Synthetic nickel nanoparticles, complexes, and MOFs exhibit antibacterial properties via nickel ion release.
• Nickel compounds can disrupt bacterial membranes and metabolism, inducing oxidative stress and ROS formation.

Conclusions:

• Nickel-based compounds offer promising antibacterial strategies, particularly against resistant strains.
• Clinical use of nickel alloys requires monitoring due to potential allergic reactions and oxidative damage.
• Nickel's dual nature necessitates careful management to balance essential trace requirements against toxicity risks.