The management of abscess wounds induced by antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections has become increasingly formidable due to the widespread overutilization and misuse of antimicrobial agents. This study presents an innovative dissolvable… Click to show full abstract
The management of abscess wounds induced by antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections has become increasingly formidable due to the widespread overutilization and misuse of antimicrobial agents. This study presents an innovative dissolvable microneedle (MN) patch incorporating Au@ZnO/Ce nanocomposites and vancomycin (AZC/Van@MN), exhibiting robust antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, meticulously engineered for the therapeutic intervention of abscess wounds. The developed AZC/Van@MN patch demonstrates exceptional biocompatibility as evidenced by comprehensive histopathological and hematological assessments. It effectively eradicates bacterial colonies through the synergistic action of Van and mild photothermal therapy (PTT, ≤42 °C). Transcriptomic analysis elucidates that the antibacterial mechanism involves the upregulation of riboflavin biosynthesis and the suppression of arginine biosynthesis pathways. Furthermore, AZC/Van@MN significantly reduces abscess dimensions, bacterial load, and inflammatory response, while simultaneously enhancing wound healing via accelerated re-epithelialization and angiogenesis. This double-edged MN patch represents a promising strategy for combating skin abscesses instigated by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
               
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