Phycocyanin-based multifunctional microspheres for treatment of infected radiation-induced skin injury

Radiation therapy is a primary modality for cancer treatment; however, it often leads to various degrees of skin injuries, ranging from mild rashes to severe ulcerations, for which no effective treatments are currently available. In this study, a multifunctional microsphere (PC@CuS-ALG) was synthesized by encapsulating phycocyanin-templated copper sulfide nanoparticles (PC@CuS) within alginate (ALG) using microfluidic technology. Phycocyanin, a natural protein derived from microalgae, shows abilities to scavenge reactive oxygen species, repair radiation-induced damage to skin cells, and ameliorate macrophage-related inflammatory responses. CuS contributes to photothermal conversion efficiency and exhibits antibacterial properties. The microspheres facilitate the sustained release of PC@CuS, retain moisture at the wound site, and provide a supportive environment for cell migration and growth. In a mouse model of infected radiation-induced skin injury, PC@CuS-ALG exhibited antibacterial and wound healing effects, resulting in accelerated epidermal tissue regeneration, increased thickness and maturation of dermal granulation tissue, and an ameliorated inflammatory response. This study presents a novel, effective, and safe approach for treating radiation-induced skin injuries complicated by bacterial infection.