ionmediated
Ion-mediated refers to processes in which ions in a solution mediate interactions between charged or polar species. Ions can screen electrostatic repulsion, enable cross-bridging between surfaces or molecules, or stabilize specific structures through binding. The term covers a broad range of phenomena in chemistry, biophysics, and materials science.
The mechanisms behind ion-mediated effects include electrostatic screening by mobile counterions, specific binding of ions to
In biology and biochemistry, ion-mediated interactions are evident in DNA condensation by multivalent cations such as
Experimental considerations for studying ion-mediated phenomena include controlling ionic strength, pH, and ion identity, as well
See also: electrostatics, salt bridge, ion atmosphere, DNA condensation, calcium-dependent adhesion.