Metal-Phenolic Network with Pd Nanoparticle Nodes Synergizes Oxidase-Like And Photothermal Properties to Eradicate Oral Polymicrobial Biofilm-Associated Infections.

Designing an effective treatment strategy to combat oral diseases caused by complex polymicrobial biofilms remains a great challenge. Herein, we construct a series of metal-phenolic network with Pd nanoparticle nodes (MPN-Pd) using polyphenols as stabilizers and reducing agents. Among them, sulfonated lignin-Pd (SLS-Pd) with ultrafine size palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs) and broadband near infrared absorption exhibited excellent oxidase-like activity and stable photothermal effect. In vitro experiments demonstrate that the superoxide radical generated by SLS-Pd oxidase-like activity exhibits selective antibacterial effects, while its photothermal effect induced hyperthermia exhibits potent antifungal properties. This difference is further elucidated by RNA-sequencing analysis and all-atom simulation. Moreover, the SLS-Pd-mediated synergistic antimicrobial system exhibits remarkable efficacy in combating various biofilms and polymicrobial biofilms. By establishing a root canal model and an oropharyngeal candidiasis model, the feasibility of the synergistic antimicrobial system in treating oral biofilm-related infections is further validated. This system provides a promising therapeutic approach for polymicrobial biofilm-associated infections in the oral cavity. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.