Diol Composition for Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Efficacy
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a growing need for effective, non-toxic, non-allergenic, and environmentally friendly antimicrobial compositions that can inactivate a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria, viruses, and fungi, as conventional antimicrobials face increasing resistance and allergic reactions.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising a combination of at least three different diols with the general structure (CH2)nH2O2, where n is between 3 to 10, in a total amount of 0.1 to 50% (v/v), which are mixed with additional agents like antimicrobial agents to enhance their antimicrobial efficacy and reduce the required concentration for effective microbial inactivation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional single diols or similar diol combinations are used, then the composition is simple to manufacture, but the antimicrobial effectiveness is insufficient against multi-resistant bacteria
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines three different diols (propane-1,2-diol, pentane-1,5-diol, and 2-methyl-pentane-2,4-diol) in specific proportions to create a composite antimicrobial composition. This composite approach leverages the synergistic effects of different diols to achieve enhanced antimicrobial effectiveness against multi-resistant bacteria, while maintaining reasonable manufacturing complexity through the use of commercially available diol components.
2Reliability
If higher concentrations of single diols are used to improve antimicrobial activity, then microbial inactivation effectiveness increases, but skin and eye irritation risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the concentration parameters of each diol component, using propane-1,2-diol (5-20%), pentane-1,5-diol (5-20%), and 2-methyl-pentane-2,4-diol (5-20%). This parameter optimization achieves effective microbial inactivation while maintaining safe irritation profiles, as each diol contributes differently to both antimicrobial activity and irritation potential.
3Reliability
If traditional antibiotics are used, then they are effective against sensitive bacteria, but multi-resistance develops over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs diols that act as disposable antimicrobial agents that do not select for resistance. Unlike antibiotics that can be metabolized or against which resistance can develop, the diol composition provides continuous antimicrobial pressure through multiple mechanisms (protein denaturation, membrane disruption, water withdrawal) that are difficult for bacteria to resist, ensuring long-term effectiveness without the development of multi-resistance.
4Productivity
If pentane-1,5-diol is used alone, then percutaneous absorption enhancement is achieved, but antimicrobial spectrum is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional composition where each diol component contributes multiple properties: propane-1,2-diol provides antimicrobial activity and skin penetration enhancement, pentane-1,5-diol provides superior percutaneous absorption enhancement and cosmetic appeal, and 2-methyl-pentane-2,4-diol provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Together, they achieve both enhanced absorption and broad antimicrobial spectrum simultaneously.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The diol composition demonstrates increased effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of multiple microorganisms compared to single diols or similar combinations, offering a broader spectrum of activity and lower concentration requirements, making it suitable for various therapeutic and cosmetic applications.
Implementation Method 1
possibly pentane-1,5-diol withdraws water from the bacterial cytoplasma, which makes the cell collapse
Implementation Method 2
The diols are capable of disrupting the structure of proteins by interfering with hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a composition comprising at least 3 different diols, wherein said diols have the general structure (CH2)nH2O2, wherein n is the number of CH2 and being between 3 to 10, in a total amount of from about 0.1 to about 50% (v/v), a method for producing the composition and its use, such as in therapy. The composition may be a pharmaceutical, cosmetic, antimicrobial or preservative composition. The composition is useful in inactivating microorganisms or preventing their growth.