Stimulus-responsive metal-phenolic network nanomaterials for treating bacterial infections

Bacterial infections, along with the associated issues of antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation, have become major threats to global public health. Given the serious limitations of traditional antibiotic treatments, including short half-lives, poor targeting, a high risk of adverse effects, and the induction of antibiotic resistance, the development of novel alternative therapies is urgently needed. In recent years, stimulus-responsive nanoplatforms that leverage the site-specific microenvironment of the infection site in conjunction with exogenous stimuli have garnered significant attention for their ability to provide multiple synergistic antimicrobial benefits. Among these, metal-phenolic networks (MPNs) have emerged as an ideal platform for constructing novel smart antimicrobial materials due to their exceptional biocompatibility, highly tunable coordination structures, and intelligent stimulus-responsive properties. This paper systematically reviews the structural characteristics and biosafety fundamentals of MPNs and delves into their multidimensional antimicrobial mechanisms that transcend traditional single-target approaches. Additionally, it comprehensively summarizes the latest advancements in antimicrobial applications of MPNs triggered by both endogenous stimuli (e.g. pH, ROS, enzymes) and exogenous stimuli (e.g. light, electricity, thermo). Finally, with a focus on clinical translation, this paper provides a thorough analysis of the significant challenges and future prospects facing stimulus-responsive MPNs, aiming to offer theoretical foundations and research insights for the design of next-generation precision anti-infective nanomedicines.