Application of f-FeNC@GOx cascade enzyme nanomaterials in the healing of infected wounds

Abstract

Aims: Bacterial infection is a significant factor contributing to the deterioration of wounds, and the misuse of antibiotics has exacerbated bacterial resistance. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a novel antibacterial strategy to replace conventional therapies. This study aims to construct a self-activated cascade reaction nanozyme, f-FeNC@GOx, which triggers a cascade reaction in the presence of glucose. This cascade reaction generates highly toxic hydroxyl radicals (OH), thereby achieving the goal of eliminating bacteria and promoting wound healing.

Material and methods: In vitro antibacterial experiments, bacterial spread plate method, Live/Dead staining, and crystal violet staining were conducted to analyze the antibacterial ability and mechanism of f-FeNC@GOx. In vivo experiments, a mouse wound model was established, and H&E and Masson staining of wound tissues were performed to assess the antibacterial activity of the f-FeNC@GOx in vivo.

Key findings: The in vivo and in vitro experiments confirmed that f-FeNC@GOx exhibited significant antibacterial effect against both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli in the presence of glucose. Furthermore, it showed optimal wound healing performance in the wound models.

Significance: These findings suggested that f-FeNC@GOx was a novel and effective antibacterial nanomaterial, which provided a promising antibacterial strategy using nanoenzyme based cascade reaction.

Keywords: Cascade reaction; F-FeNC; Peroxidase-like activity; Self-activated; Wound healing.