Tetraamminecopper dihydroxide also known as Schweizer's Reagent dissolves cellulose; used in rayon production.

Gentian violet ((GV) hexamethyl pararosaniline, also known as crystal violet, methyl violet) is a triphenylmethane dye with anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-helminithic, anti-trypanosomal, anti-angiogenic and anti-tumor properties. GV has a lengthy history and has been used successfully as monotherapy and an adjunct to treatment in a variety of diseases. Gentian violet interacts with negatively charged components of bacterial cells including the lipopolysaccharide (on the cell wall), the peptidoglycan and DNA. A similar cell penetration and DNA binding process is thought to take place for fungal cells as well. Because Gentian violet is a mutagen and mitotic poison, cell growth is consequently inhibited. A photodynamic action of gentian violet, apparently mediated by a free-radical mechanism, has recently been described in bacteria and in the protozoan T. cruzi. Evidence also suggests that gentian violet dissipates the bacterial (and mitochondrial) membrane potential by inducing permeability. This is followed by respiratory inhibition. This anti-mitochondrial activity might explain gentian violet's efficacy towards both bacteria and yeast with relatively mild effects on mammalian cells.

Inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi ) has long been known as a by-product of many intracellular biosynthetic reactions. PPi plays the regulatory role in living systems, such as activities of enzymes, fidelity of syntheses of macromolecules, and proliferation of cells. PPi is used as a biochemical energy source instead of ATP especially in bacteria, protists, and plants. PPi may also regulate the formation and dissolution of bone as well as pathologic calcification of soft tissues and the formation of urinary stones. The formation of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals in the extracellular fluids of joints cause the disease called pseudogout. Sodium, potassium and calcium pyrophosphates (E450) are used as food additives as buffers and emulsifiers.