Polymeric Nanoshell-Stabilized Liquid Metal for Bactericidal Photonanomedicine

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Liquid metals (LMs) and their nanoparticles (LMNPs) are promising for nanotechnology but face challenges in biomedical applications due to rapid oxidation.
• Current LMNPs often lack adequate surface protection, limiting their stability and functionality in physiological environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a method for stabilizing LMNPs against oxidation for enhanced biomedical applications.
• To evaluate the photothermal conversion efficiency and bactericidal capabilities of polymer-encapsulated LMNPs.

Main Methods:

• Synthesizing LMNPs with a protective polymeric supra-nanoparticle shell using sonochemical assembly.
• Assessing the oxidation kinetics and photothermal conversion efficiency under near-infrared (NIR) laser irradiation.
• Testing the photothermal bactericidal efficacy both in vitro and in vivo, including in an agarose hydrogel matrix for wound healing.

Main Results:

• Polymer encapsulation significantly reduced LMNP oxidation rates and maintained their functionality, even after hyperthermia treatment.
• Encapsulated LMNPs demonstrated doubled photothermal conversion efficiency compared to unprotected LMNPs.
• LMNPs, particularly within a hydrogel, exhibited potent photothermal bactericidal activity, promoting disinfection and accelerated wound healing.

Conclusions:

• Polymer-encapsulated LMNPs offer a stable, biocompatible, and reusable platform for photothermal applications.
• This nanoshell-enabled approach enhances LMNP performance, broadening their potential in nano-biomedicine against infections and cancer.