An enzymatic and metal-organic framework system to prevent biofilm infections

Macrophages secrete reticular structures composed of DNA and histones when facing microbial infections, termed macrophage extracellular traps (METs). METs can create recurrent infections, especially implant-associated biofilm infections. Here, we report a dual metal-organic framework (MOF) structure utilizing superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like MOF-818 and iron (Fe)-doped zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (Fe-ZIFs), loaded with the oxygen (O 2 )-adsorbent carrier perfluorohexane (PFH) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH), to form MPFN-O 2 . Once MPFN-O 2 reaches the biofilm, released O 2 can react with NADPH to generate superoxide anions (O 2 − ). Subsequently, MOF-818 can convert O 2 − into hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ). Meanwhile, Fe ions released from acidity-triggered Fe-ZIF degradation catalyze H 2 O 2 into toxic hydroxyl radicals (·OH), which disrupt the biofilms. Additionally, MPFN-O 2 can inhibit the formation of local METs via calcium ion channels, reducing the likelihood of recurrent infections. This antimicrobial nanozyme for antibiofilm and subsequent recurrent infections present a promising avenue for addressing clinically challenging refractory biofilm infections.