Nanozymes for infectious biofilm control - a platinum single atom approach
Nanozymes for infectious biofilm control - a platinum single atom approach
Biofilm-associated infections are difficult to treat because bacteria within biofilms are embedded in a self-assembled matrix, which protect them and therewith are highly resistant to conventional antimicrobial therapies.
This thesis of Qiaolan Shi investigates how hybrid nanozymes can be designed as more effective antimicrobial catalysts, with particular attention to the role of platinum (Pt) size and support materials. Using manganese oxide (MnO2) and bismuth oxyhalide (Bi3O4Br) as model support materials, it is shown how differences in Pt nanoparticle size and surface structure of the support material influence catalytic performance, antibacterial activity, and biocompatibility. The results demonstrate that both Pt single-atoms and optimal sized Pt nanoparticles can efficiently disrupt bacterial biofilms, while single-atoms Pt loaded on MnO2 nanosheets enable low-dose hydrogen peroxide activation under acidic biofilm conditions. Pt nanoparticles loaded on Bi3O4Br nanosheets enhance antibiotic treatment and promote healing in infected wounds.
Oxygen-vacancy configurations are identified as a key factor controlling whether Pt is stabilized as single-atoms or to grow into nanoparticles. These findings provide fundamental insight into hybrid nanozyme design and support the development of targeted, effective, and biocompatible strategies for biofilm-associated infection control.