Triple-Shielded Microneedle Patch: A Synergistic Approach to Combat Infection, Oxidation and Inflammation in Wound...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Wound Healing

Background:

• Infected wound healing is hindered by inflammation, oxidative stress, and bacterial growth.
• Current treatments face challenges in addressing these interconnected pathological factors.
• Developing multifunctional strategies is crucial for effective infected wound management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a synergistic tri-functional microneedle patch (MN-AT) for infected wound treatment.
• To address inflammation, oxidative stress, and microbial colonization simultaneously.
• To promote a pro-healing immune microenvironment.

Main Methods:

• Engineered a microneedle patch using thiolated chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel.
• Integrated a tea polyphenol-magnesium antioxidant complex.
• Surface-functionalized with amino-terminated gold nanoparticles.

Main Results:

• MN-AT demonstrated potent antibacterial activity in vitro.
• Effective free radical scavenging and oxidative stress mitigation were observed.
• Suppressed inflammation by modulating macrophage polarization, promoting a pro-healing state.
• Accelerated wound closure and enhanced collagen deposition in a murine model.

Conclusions:

• The developed MN-AT patch offers a multifunctional strategy for infected wound healing.
• Synergistic antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory actions promote tissue regeneration.
• This innovative microneedle system presents a promising therapeutic approach for complex wounds.