Literature introduction

Electrospun nanofibrous membranes (eNFM) have been widely developed for biological applications due to their structural and compositional similarity to natural extracellular matrix. However, the emergence of antibiotic resistance in bacterial infections has severely hindered the further development and application of eNFM. The development of antimicrobial nanomaterials has greatly facilitated the engineering of antimicrobial eNFM to combat bacterial infections without relying on antibiotics.

Key Highlights of Our Groundbreaking Research

1.Innovation in Fabrication: 

Dive into a comprehensive review of state-of-the-art techniques for integrating antimicrobial nanomaterials into eNFMs. Explore the diverse range of nanomaterials and their bactericidal mechanisms, showcasing the cutting edge of nanotechnology in action.

2.Advancing Tissue Regeneration:

Stay ahead with the latest results and breakthroughs in antimicrobial eNFMs for tissue regeneration therapy. Our focus spans across skin, bone, periodontal, and tendon tissues, offering a holistic approach to regenerative medicine.

3.Future Prospects: 

Engage with an in-depth discussion on the limitations, challenges, and future opportunities of antimicrobial eNFMs in biomedical applications. Stay informed on the path forward in this rapidly evolving field.

What are the main advantages of electrospun nanofibre membranes (eNFMs) for biomedical applications?

1.Natural ECM Mimicry: 

Our eNFMs boast a highly porous 3D network, mirroring the natural extracellular matrix (ECM), essential for optimal cell adhesion and proliferation.

2.Enhanced Surface Area and Porosity: 

The electrospinning process yields nanofibers with an exceptional surface area to volume ratio, amplifying cell-scaffold interactions and accelerating tissue regeneration and repair.

3.Material Versatility: 

Crafted from a spectrum of biocompatible and biodegradable polymers, eNFMs offer customization for a myriad of biomedical applications.

4.Cell Migration and Growth Promotion: 

The unique structure of eNFMs fosters fibroblast migration and growth factor secretion, propelling the tissue healing process forward.

5.Antimicrobial Integration: 

By incorporating antimicrobial nanomaterials, eNFMs offer a solution to bacterial infections, bypassing traditional antibiotics and addressing the urgent issue of antibiotic resistance.

6.Multifunctional Potential: 

eNFMs are designed to integrate multiple functions, such as moisture permeability and environmental responsiveness, catering to a variety of tissue repair processes.

Two main routes to prepare antimicrobial eNFMs by doping with bactericidal nanomaterials

How do antimicrobial nanomaterials enhance the effectiveness of electrostatically spun films?

1. Direct antimicrobial activity: 

By incorporating antimicrobial nanomaterials into eNFMs, these membranes acquire direct antimicrobial properties that can effectively inhibit or kill bacteria on contact.

2. Prevention of biofilm formation: 

Antimicrobial nanomaterials can alter the physical and chemical properties of eNFMs, such as size, shape and surface charge, thus helping to prevent bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation on the membrane surface.

3. Enhanced mechanical properties: 

The addition of certain nanomaterials can improve the mechanical strength and stability of eNFMs, making them more suitable for a variety of biomedical applications while maintaining their antimicrobial properties.

4. Synergistic effects: 

The combination of different types of antimicrobial nanomaterials can have synergistic effects, making the overall antimicrobial efficacy greater than the sum of their individual effects. This can enhance the overall performance of eNFMs against bacterial infections.

5. Controlled release of antimicrobial agents: 

Some nanomaterials can be designed to release antimicrobial agents in a controlled manner to provide sustained antimicrobial activity. This is particularly beneficial for long-term applications in wound healing and tissue regeneration.

6. Microenvironmental responsiveness: 

Certain antimicrobial nanomaterials can respond to specific physiological conditions, such as pH, temperature, or the presence of reactive oxygen species, thereby enhancing their antimicrobial effect under specific conditions.

Two representative strategies for incorporating zinc oxide with different structures (including spherical, branched and rod-shaped) into eNFMs to enhance antimicrobial activity.

Original link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.09.003