A Multifunctional MOF Heterojunction for Combating Antibiotic Resistance and Promoting Regenerative Immunity

The study introduces a hierarchically engineered microreactor, SK@hZnO@ZIF-8 (SZZ), designed to tackle antimicrobial resistance and immune dysregulation in infected wounds. The microreactor features a pH-responsive ZIF-8 shell that releases Shikonin (SK) and Zn2+ at acidic infection sites, effectively eradicating over 99.9% of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and maintaining over 95% efficacy across 20 passages, thus preventing drug resistance. Additionally, SZZ reprograms the immune response by promoting M2 macrophage polarization and increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines, leading to a shift from a pro-inflammatory to a pro-reparative state. This dual action results in complete infection clearance and significant tissue regeneration, including 72.4% collagen deposition and enhanced hair follicle formation, within 7 days, showcasing a novel therapeutic approach for infection resolution and biological repair.