Biochem/physiol Actions 2-Mercaptopyridine N-oxide is a zinc ionophore that transports zinc into cells1. Application 2-Mercaptopyridine N-oxide can be used to generate bidentate oxothiolane chelates with transition metals. 2-Mercaptopyridine N-oxide, also called pyrithione, is added to cells in culture so metals enter them readily without relying on transporters. 2-Mercaptopyridine N-oxide can be used to generate bidentate oxothiolane chelates with transition metals. It is used to study picornavirus infections1 and is used as a zinc ionophore.