Researchers from the DQBM Kümmerli Lab describe metallophores as key gatekeepers of bacterial metal homeostasis. These secreted molecules capture essential metals such as iron, zinc and copper, while selective transport systems help prevent toxic accumulation inside cells.
The primer also shows how metallophores influence cooperation, exploitation and competition between bacteria and in interactions with plants, fungi and animal hosts. Their chemical specificity makes them promising tools for antibiotic delivery, metal deprivation strategies against pathogens and bioremediation of contaminated environments.