1. Molecules or compounds that facilitate the transport of ions across cell membranes or lipid bilayers.
Usage: plural form; technical/scientific term; commonly used in biochemistry and pharmacology

Examples

• Ionophores are used in laboratory research to study ion transport mechanisms.
• Some antibiotics function as ionophores by disrupting bacterial cell membranes.
• Valinomycin is a well-known ionophore that selectively transports potassium ions.
• Researchers use ionophores to artificially increase calcium levels in cells.
• The ionophore monensin is sometimes added to livestock feed as a growth promoter.
• Ionophores can be toxic to cells if used at high concentrations.