PCN-224@ZIF-8 core-shell heterojunctions synergistic photocatalytic and photothermal effects for antibacterial and wound healing applications.

Drug-resistant bacteria pose a severe threat to global public health. Therefore, developing new, efficient, and safe antibacterial strategies not based on antibacterial drugs is crucial. This study designed and synthesized a core-shell heterojunction material PCN-224@ZIF-8 for photocatalytic and photothermally enhanced antibacterial treatment and wound healing. The PCN-224 nanoparticles were prepared using a solvothermal method, with subsequent in situ growth of a ZIF-8 shell to form a core-shell structure. Characterization of PCN-224@ZIF-8 demonstrated a large specific surface area and a stable heterojunction interface, facilitating photogenerated charge carrier separation and migration, thereby boosting reactive oxygen species generation and photothermal effects. Photoelectrochemical analysis and in vitro tests confirmed excellent antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus under 660 nm light, with sterilization rates of 99.71% and 99.52%, respectively. In vivo mouse studies demonstrated that PCN-224@ZIF-8 significantly promoted wound healing in Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) infected wounds, showing excellent biocompatibility and tissue repair potential.