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Self-Strengthened PDT Coupling ROS Precise Regulation High-Penetration Microneedle for Adaptive Treatment of
Yan Shi1, Jinrui Li1, Jiaxuan Zhao1
1College of Marine Life Science, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|March 12, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a novel microneedle system for treating pathological scars by combining photodynamic therapy (PDT) with ROS regulation. The system effectively reduces scar tissue and inflammation, offering a promising new therapeutic strategy.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Dermatology
- Wound Healing Research
Background:
- Pathological scars result from abnormal wound healing, characterized by fibrotic disorders.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) shows efficacy but is hindered by dense scar matrices, hypoxia, and secondary inflammation from reactive oxygen species (ROS).
- Existing treatments face challenges in penetrating rigid scar tissue and managing post-treatment inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel NIR-switchable ROS-regulatory liposome (ICC@Lip) for enhanced PDT efficacy in pathological scars.
- To engineer a biomimetic microneedle platform (ICC@Lip/HPMN) for efficient transdermal delivery of therapeutic agents into scar tissue.
- To investigate the therapeutic effects of the developed system on scar reduction, collagen deposition, and inflammation.
Main Methods:
- Development of NIR-switchable ROS-regulatory liposomes (ICC@Lip) incorporating CaO2 nanoparticles for oxygenation and Cu5.4O nanozymes for ROS scavenging.
- Construction of a biomimetic microneedle platform (ICC@Lip/HPMN) inspired by Cyperaceae stems for improved penetration of pathological scars.
- In vitro evaluation of cytotoxicity against myofibroblasts and macrophage polarization, and in vivo assessment in rabbit ear hypertrophic scar models.
Main Results:
- ICC@Lip/HPMN demonstrated superior penetration capabilities compared to conventional microneedles.
- In vitro studies showed significant alleviation of hypoxia and fibrotic indicators, with high cytotoxicity against myofibroblasts and reduced M2 macrophage polarization.
- In vivo studies in rabbit ear models significantly reduced scar elevation index, collagen deposition, and inflammation, mediated by cross-downregulation of TGF-β, IL-4, and TLR signaling pathways.
Conclusions:
- The developed ICC@Lip/HPMN system offers an effective transdermal delivery strategy for pathological scars.
- The combination of self-strengthened PDT and precise ROS regulation provides a promising adaptive therapeutic approach.
- This strategy successfully addresses limitations of conventional PDT, paving the way for improved scar treatment.
