Elastin-like polypeptide and triclosan-modified PCL membrane provides aseptic protection in tissue regeneration

Tissue regeneration is a spatiotemporally ordered multidimensional process involving hierarchical structures, vascularization, and metabolic-immune properties, while injury often triggers structural disorganization, inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and mechanical impairment. Based on these findings, we designed a functionalized polycaprolactone (PCL) porous scaffold loaded with biocompatible elastin and the antibacterial drug triclosan, which specifically inhibits the growth of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Using a bio-mimetic mussel adhesion approach, a polydopamine coating was formed on the surface of electrospun PCL membranes to provide grafting sites for elastin-like polypeptides (ELP), attaching elastin peptides and triclosan to the PCL surface. This method not only provided sites for secondary reactions but also enhanced the hydrophilicity of PCL. Compared with ordinary PCL, the modified PCL scaffold exhibited enhanced antibacterial activity against MRSA and promoted vascularization and neuralization. This is the first time that an antibacterial drug and ELP have been combined to achieve targeted suppression of bacterial resistance. The porous structure of 3D-printed PCL provides good mechanical properties, while the excellent biocompatibility of ELP promotes cell proliferation and migration, maintains a favorable regenerative microenvironment, and mitigates the short-term cytotoxicity of the antibacterial drug. To evaluate the functionalized PCL and expand its applications, in vivo experiments were conducted in both hypoxic subcutaneous and oxygen-rich muscle environments, demonstrating good antibacterial performance and tendencies towards vascular and neural regeneration. This study provides a solid theoretical basis and great potential for applications in wound soft tissue healing and bone injury regeneration, particularly in scenarios requiring antimicrobial resistance management.