Final answer:
Ethylene oxide is the chemical method that cross-links proteins and DNA, is sporicidal and is considered a sterilant. It acts as an alkylating agent, sterilizing items by inactivating enzymes and nucleic acids, making it especially useful for sterilizing heat-sensitive materials. However, it is carcinogenic and explosive, necessitating careful handling.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ethylene oxide is used as a fumigant in foods and textiles and to sterilize surgical instruments in hospitals. Due to its ability to alkylate the amino (-NH₂) and sulfhydryl (-SH) groups commonly present in biochemicals, ethylene oxide acts as a potent alkylating agent, making it highly effective in inactivating enzymes and nucleic acids, thus leading to sterilization. It is particularly useful for sterilizing heat-sensitive materials and is capable of permeating through packaged goods. However, careful handling is essential, as ethylene oxide is carcinogenic and highly explosive. The effectiveness of chemical disinfectants like ethylene oxide has historically been compared to agents such as formaldehyde, which is another type of alkylating agent. Alkylating agents like ethylene oxide and formaldehyde are not used as antiseptics due to their toxicity and potential carcinogenicity, but they are valued for their strong disinfecting and sterilizing properties.