Antibacterial peptide-modified collagen nanosheet for infected wound repair

Abstract

Dressing materials with wet adhesive and antibacterial features are in high demand for the healing of infected wounds. Here, we report the development of an antibacterial peptide (KRWWKWWRRC)-modified collagen nanosheet (KCN) by a two-step spin-coating process. The two-dimensional nanosheet demonstrates promising mechanical strength of ~31 ​MPa at a thickness of 87 ​nm, which is comparable to human skin tissue. The KCN with high transparency and flexibility could firmly adhere to the complex surface of biological tissues in wet environments. In vitro cytotoxicity and antibacterial experiments showed that the KCN is biocompatible and has high antibacterial activity (over 99%). Moreover, a rat skin infection wound model demonstrated that the KCN showed rapid wound closure and low inflammation, and wound closure could be achieved on day 14 after surgery with good re-epithelialization. Our findings reveal a promising nanosheet-based strategy for treating bacteria-infected soft-tissue wounds.