EGCG Metal-Polyphenol Frameworks for Controlling Nitric Oxide Release in the Treatment of MRSA-Infected Wounds

Jia-Xi Chen1, Xin-Hui Zhou2, Wei-Qiu Wen2

  • 1The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, 523710 Dongguan, China.

Molecular Pharmaceutics
|September 20, 2025
PubMed

Insights

A novel metal-polyphenol framework (MPN) loaded with nitric oxide donor (S-nitrosoglutathione) effectively treats methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) wound infections. This innovative approach inhibits bacteria and promotes tissue regeneration.

Area of Science:

  • Biomaterials Science
  • Nanotechnology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Drug-resistant bacteria, particularly MRSA, pose significant challenges in healthcare settings.
  • Conventional antibiotics are becoming less effective against resistant bacterial strains.
  • Novel therapeutic strategies are crucial for combating MRSA infections and promoting wound healing.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To design and develop a metal-polyphenol framework (MPN) loaded with S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) for MRSA-infected wound treatment.
  • To investigate the photothermal-triggered release of nitric oxide (NO) for antibacterial activity.
  • To evaluate the anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties of the developed MPN system.

Main Methods:

  • Fabrication of an MPN via chelation of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and Fe3+, encapsulating GSNO.
  • Application of 808 nm laser irradiation to trigger NO release.
  • Assessment of antibacterial efficacy against MRSA and biofilms.
  • Evaluation of ROS scavenging, anti-inflammatory effects, macrophage polarization, and angiogenesis in wound healing models.

Main Results:

  • The MPN system demonstrated effective inhibition of MRSA and elimination of biofilms upon photothermal stimulation.
  • EGCG component exhibited ROS scavenging and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • The system successfully induced M2 macrophage polarization, promoting angiogenesis and accelerating wound healing.

Conclusions:

  • A simple and effective drug delivery system using MPN loaded with GSNO was successfully developed.
  • This strategy offers a promising therapeutic approach for controlling MRSA infections.
  • The system effectively promotes tissue regeneration and wound healing, addressing critical needs in infectious disease management.