A ROS-responsive core-shell microneedle platform integrating sonodynamic gas antibacterial therapy and modulating...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Chronic diabetic wounds with biofilm infections are difficult to heal due to persistent bacteria and imbalanced microenvironments.
• Impaired local perfusion limits conventional treatments for biofilm eradication and wound healing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an ultrasound-activated microneedle platform (CCA&Lut@MN) for treating chronic diabetic wounds.
• To combine sonodynamic gas cascade antimicrobial therapy with ROS-responsive microenvironment modulation.

Main Methods:

• Developed a core-shell microneedle platform incorporating L-arginine-modified copper-cysteine nanoparticles (CCA) and an ROS-responsive PVA-HP-luteolin hydrogel core.
• Utilized ultrasonic stimulation to activate CCA for ROS and NO generation, inducing synergistic antimicrobial effects and biofilm eradication.
• Investigated the ROS-responsive release of luteolin to scavenge ROS and promote M2 macrophage polarization for enhanced healing.

Main Results:

• CCA&Lut@MN demonstrated rapid bactericidal activity and effective biofilm eradication upon ultrasonic activation.
• The microneedle platform successfully modulated the wound microenvironment by scavenging ROS and promoting M2 macrophage polarization.
• In a diabetic rat model, CCA&Lut@MN significantly reduced bacterial load, inflammation, and improved blood supply, accelerating wound healing.

Conclusions:

• The ultrasound-activated microneedle platform offers a promising strategy for treating complex and refractory chronic diabetic wounds.
• Synergistic effects of sonodynamic therapy, gas cascade reactions, and microenvironment modulation contribute to enhanced wound healing.
• This approach addresses limitations of conventional therapies by improving local perfusion and combating biofilm infections.