Near-infrared light-responsive photothermal-chemical synergistic antimicrobial GO-BPEI/La nanofiber membrane in the repair of skin wound inflammation

Abstract

Electrospun fibers are widely used in biomedical applications for tissue and organ repair due to their unique structure, which resembles the extracellular matrix (ECM). A key challenge in designing ideal wound dressings lies in simultaneously enhancing antibacterial efficacy and biocompatibility. In this study, to address chronic inflammation associated with microbial resistance, branched polyethyleneimine (BPEI)-modified graphene oxide (GO) (GO-BPEI) and LaCl₃ were incorporated into a solution composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS). Through electrospinning, a PVA/CS/GO-BPEI/La nanofibrous membrane with photothermal/chemical synergistic antibacterial properties was fabricated. The resulting membranes exhibited favorable mechanical properties, breathability, and moisture absorption. The photothermal antibacterial effect of GO-BPEI, combined with the chemical antibacterial activity of LaCl₃, endowed the electrospun membranes with remarkable inhibition rates against Staphylococcus aureus (97 ​%) and Escherichia coli (99 ​%). Moreover, the membranes showed negligible cytotoxicity toward human skin fibroblasts (HSFs) and only a minor impact on cell migration. Therefore, this electrospun membrane demonstrates great potential as a skin wound dressing for infection suppression and tissue regeneration.