Broad spectrum antibacterial activity of peracetic acid (Percidin)

Background: Peracetic acid (Percidin) is a chemical compound that shows antimicrobial activity due to its high oxidizing potential. This study was designed to evaluate the efficiency of antibacterial activity of Percidin and its spectrum by disc diffusion and microdilution methods.

Materials and Methods: Standard strains and isolated bacteria from clinical specimens in the north of Iran were used in this work. Different dilutions of percidine and discs were prepared. Disc diffusion test was done and inhibition zone was measured. Finally, MIC and MBC was determined by microdilution methods.

Results: Our results demonstrated highest susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus strains that were sensitive and resistant to methiciline. Lower level of susceptibility to percidin was seen for Bacillus licheniformis. Inhibition zone for gram negative bacteria was between 34 and 45 mm. Almost both MIC and MBC for gram positive bacteria was 2µg/ml and maximum amount obtained in Mycobacterium smegmatis and Entrococcus fecalis with 4µg/ml and 8µg/ml simultaneously. The MIC was 4µg/ml in gram negative bacteria.

Conclusion: The analysis of percidin antibacterial activity against different types of bacteria shows its wide antibacterial spectrum that covers gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria including standard and clinical isolated strains. The coincidence of most of the MIC and the MBC indicates the bactericidal activity for Percidin. In brief, this work describes a broad-spectrum antibacterial activity of Percidin and suggests use of this compound as a strong disinfectant in hospitals and elimination of bacteria from medical equipments.