Integrated Bilayer Microneedle Dressing and Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Intelligent Management of Infected Wounds
Kun Wang, Qihang Ding, Manlin Qi, Wei Zhang, Yuxiao Hou, Ruida Cao, Chunyan Li, Lin Xu, Lin Wang, Jong Seung Kim
Abstract
Abstract The integration of real‐time monitoring and on‐demand treatment has substantial potential to accelerate wound healing processes. In this context, versatile bilayer microneedles (MNs) and a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) are developed as a theranostic platform for efficient wound management. This platform provides benefits including controlling infection, promoting cell migration and proliferation, and the capability for biochemical sensing. The bilayer MNs comprise a solvable polyvinylpyrrolidone MN (pMN) affixed atop a conductive stainless‐steel MN (sMN). The robust sMN penetrates the requisite skin depth, while the pMN, infused with antibiotics, ensures sustained drug release upon dissolution in the interstitial fluids. Concurrently, the TENG generates electrical stimulation transmitted to the wound site through the conductive sMN, contributing to accelerated wound closure. Furthermore, the sMN, coated with silver and carbon nanotubes (CNT/Ag/sMN), functions as a transdermal electrochemical sensor to assess the wound state by detecting hydrogen peroxide and uric acid. Notably, in vivo animal studies have demonstrated that the MN‐TENG device not only effectively inhibits bacterial growth and expedites wound healing but also monitors wound biomarkers, thereby validating its utility in improving infected wound recovery. Consequently, this MN‐TENG based transdermal strategy fosters advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic technologies within wound management and related biomedical domains.