Leaf-like nanostructures self-assembled by silver-coordinated photosensitizers as collaborative antimicrobial agents.

Abstract

This research introduces an innovative approach to addressing bacterial infections in wounds using leaf-like nanostructures, which are self-assembled via coordination between the photosensitizer Cz-BTZ-mPy and silver ions. These nanostructures combine photosensitizer-generated singlet oxygen with silver's antibacterial effects, synergistically promoting wound healing. When incorporated into a Carbopol 941 hydrogel matrix, these nanostructures achieve near-total bacterial eradication (0.04% survival) while accelerating wound healing and tissue regeneration in a mouse model. This dual-functional mechanism allows the nanostructures to perform exceptionally well against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, even in biofilm environments, where conventional strategies solely on individual components often fail.