Infection control with antimicrobial solid-state ZnO nanoparticles on silk fibroin gauze

Abstract

Abstract Traditional antibiotic treatments for wound infections pose risks associated with microbial resistance, necessitating the exploration of innovative approaches such as nanoparticles as the next generation of antibiotics. In this study, we present a paradigm shift approach for acute and chronic wound care by developing an active wound dressing capable of protecting and eradicating bacteria from the injury site. The focus of this research is on the electroless deposition of large zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) onto spined silk fibroin gauze, targeting a particle size range of approximately 200 nm to minimize cytotoxity. The biocompatibility and antimicrobial efficacy of the ZnO NP-embedded silk wound dressing were evaluated against gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria. The results demonstrate that the ZnO NPs integrated within the silk wound dressing exhibit biocompatibility with 70% cell viability and control microorganism growth against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, gradually from first 24 hours of exposure. By targeting larger particle size, only the release of a substantial amount of zinc ions were released without generating toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) that could harm both bacteria and cells. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of utilizing bioresorbable wound dressings functionalized with large ZnO NPs, thus revolutionizing the landscape of clinical wound care.