Zinc-based metal organic framework with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties for promoting wound healing

The synergistic effect of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory is needed to overcome the problem of wound healing difficulties. Based on the favorable antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect of zinc ions (Zn²⁺) and the physicochemical properties of metal organic frameworks (MOFs), we prepared nanosized zinc-based MOF: Zn-BTC with the ability to slowly release Zn²⁺. In cellular levels, Zn-BTC possessed lower toxicity to fibroblasts and enhanced capacity of cell proliferation and migration. It also had good bactericidal effect on multiple drug-resistant bacteria by reducing 41.4% MRSA and 47.2% Escherichia coli. In addition, Zn-BTC also displayed the ability of lowering the expression of antioxidant genes: superoxide dismutase 1, superoxide dismutase 2 and interleukin 6, and enhancing the expression of wound healing genes: transforming growth factors-β and type I collagen. Finally, it also demonstrated that Zn-BTC could effectively improve the skin wound healing of SD rats and had no toxicity on major organs. The favorable biocompatibility, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of Zn-BTC gave a new insight of designing novel MOFs for promoting skin wound healing.