Construction of Nanozyme-Hydrogel for Enhanced Capture and Elimination of Bacteria

The widespread multidrug resistance resulting from the abuse of antibiotics motivates researchers to explore alternative methods to treat bacterial infections. Recently, the emergence of nanozymes has provided a potential approach to combat bacteria. Such nanozymes can mimic the functions of natural enzymes to induce the production of highly toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) as an antibacterial. However, the lack of effective interaction between nanozymes and bacteria, and the intrinsic short lifetime and diffusion distance of ROS greatly compromise their bactericidal activity. Furthermore, the dead bacteria left in the infected area can give rise to unexpected tissue inflammation. Herein, for the first time, a nanozyme-hydrogel is constructed to realize reinforced antibacterials. The nanozyme-hydrogel with the traits of positive charge and macropore can capture and restrict bacteria in the range of ROS destruction. Significantly, by combining the near-infrared photothermal property of nanozymes, the nanozyme-hydrogel can achieve a synergistic bactericidal effect. More importantly, the nanozyme-hydrogel can eliminate bacteria and reduce the risk of inflammation. In consequence, the current work manifests an original strategy to improve the antibacterial performance of nanozymes, concurrently promote wound healing.