A natural polymer-functionalized MXene/ZIF-67 nanocomposite as a synergistic platform for enhanced in vitro cell...

In this study, a hybrid nanocomposite (HNC) comprising MXene, ZIF-67, and chitosan was comprehensively evaluated for its structural, antibacterial, biocompatible, and cell migration properties. X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the successful integration of MXene, ZIF-67, and chitosan, with unique peaks suggesting the formation of a highly structured composite. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed a uniform distribution of ZIF-67 on the MXene surface and subsequent decoration of the MXene/ZIF-67 surface with chitosan, which enhanced the structural complexity and surface roughness of the composite. The resulting MXene/ZIF-67/chitosan HNC exhibited enhanced antibacterial activity against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, which was attributed to the synergistic interactions among the components. Biocompatibility tests performed on L929 mouse fibroblast cells showed high cell viability (79 % at 100 μg/mL), indicating the low cytotoxicity of the nanocomposite. Moreover, an in vitro scratch assay demonstrated that the HNC significantly promoted fibroblast migration, with a maximum migration rate of 90 %. These findings demonstrate the prepared MXene/ZIF-67/chitosan as a promising multifunctional biomaterial for future wound-healing applications.