Novel application of HKUST-1 metal–organic framework as antifungal: Biological tests and physicochemical characterizations

The HKUST-1 metal–organic framework (MOF) was successfully applied as a biocidal material against representative yeast and mold. The synthesized MOF showed a strong antifungal effect against Saccharomyces cerevisiae for which the growth was completely inhibited, whereas the growth of Geotrichum candidum was reduced from 6.16 to 1.29 CFU mL−1. The antifungal action was related to copper ions released into the culture medium due to a progressive degradation of the crystalline structure of the material that involved the formation of surface extra-framework Cu(I). This study shows the potential of using copper-based metal–organic frameworks for a controlled release of biologically active copper ions.

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► Metal–organic framework with antifungal activity.
► Growth inhibition of yeast and mold.
► Slow MOF degradation producing extra-framework Cu(I).
► Controlled release of Cu ions.