Gonococcicidal action of capper in vitro.

PIP: Several copper and cupric ion sources were shown to kill or inhibit the growth of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in vitro. The media used was GC Agar Base supplemented with Isovitalex. Pure copper shot, cupric sulfate, and cupric chloride were used as copper sources. E. coli and Neisseria meningitis were used in addition to Neisseria gonorrhoeae to test the effects of the copper. It was found that micromolar amounts of the copper sulfate and copper chloride killed gonococci during relatively brief incubation while the organisms were in suspension. Inhibition of gonococcal or meningococcal growth was achieved by concentrations of cupric ion several-fold more dilute than was necessary to inhibit growth of E. coli. The sensitivity of gonococci is primarily of interest because of recent contraceptive uses of copper. The copper-containing intrauterine devices might offer prophylactic protection against gonococcal infection of the female genitalia.^ieng