The role of copper on ethambutol's antimicrobial action and implications for ethambutol-induced optic neuropathy

摘要: The principal side effect of the antimycobacterial agent ethambutol (EMB) is an optic neuropathy with clinical features very similar to a mitochondrial hereditary (Leber's). mechanism EMB-induced may be EMB's chelation copper, thereby precluding normal cytochrome c oxidase activity and metabolism in nerve. Before attempting use therapeutic copper replenish endogenous stores attempt preclude neuropathy, we wished determine whether EMB still effective against mycobacteria presence copper. alone combination, were tested six strains Mycobacterium tuberculosis five avium using radiometric broth macrodilution assay. Copper did not antimicrobial actions either species mycobacteria. This vitro study suggests that if given patients prevent it would compromise bacteriostatic properties.