The Core-Shell Microneedle with Probiotic Extracellular Vesicles for Infected Wound Healing and Microbial Homeostasis...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Wound Healing Research
• Microbiology

Background:

• Infected wounds exhibit prolonged inflammation due to microbial imbalance, hindering effective healing.
• Current treatments face challenges in addressing diverse healing stages and microbial loads.
• Restoring microbial homeostasis is crucial for optimal wound recovery and skin barrier function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a core-shell microneedle (CSMN) patch for sequential delivery of therapeutic agents in infected wounds.
• To evaluate the efficacy of tannic acid-magnesium (TA-Mg) complexes and Lactobacillus druckerii extracellular vesicles (LDEVs) in promoting wound healing.
• To investigate the impact of the CSMN patch on microbial composition and host tissue response.

Main Methods:

• Design and fabrication of a core-shell microneedle (CSMN) patch.
• Sequential release of tannic acid-magnesium (TA-Mg) and Lactobacillus druckerii extracellular vesicles (LDEVs).
• In vitro and in vivo assessment of antimicrobial activity, cellular responses, and wound healing in murine models.

Main Results:

• The CSMN patch effectively delivered TA-Mg to reduce microbial load and reactive oxygen species (ROS), facilitating transition to the proliferative phase.
• Sustained LDEV release promoted keratinocyte and fibroblast activity, vascularization, and collagen modulation.
• The treatment inhibited pathogens, increased microbial diversity, accelerated wound closure, and improved skin quality in infected murine wounds.

Conclusions:

• The developed CSMN patch provides sequential delivery of TA-Mg and LDEVs for effective infected wound management.
• This approach addresses microbial homeostasis, reduces inflammation, and promotes rapid, high-quality skin healing.
• The study highlights the potential of microneedle technology and microbial modulation for advanced wound care.