On-demand nanozyme system for rapid eradication of multidrug-resistant biofilms

Chronic wounds pose a significant threat to public health. The economic burden of wounds is projected to increase to $18.7 billion by 2027, with an annual growth rate of 6.6% from 2020 to 2027. By providing a fertile ground for the growth of infectious microorganisms, especially in immunocompromised patients, wounds lead to extended hospitalization and morbidity. Even the last-resort antbiotics are becoming ineffective due to the burgeoning antimicrobial resistance. Treatment of wound infections is further complicated by the highly spatiotemporally organized and adherent polymicrobial communities (biofilms) that are remarkably rapidly eradicate biofilms are highly desirable. We have developed a visible light-responsive nanozyme system based on FDA-approved metal oxides and a bioinspired acid. To further develop this on-demand nanozyme treatment for wound infections, the intern will develop biofilms of multidrug resistant bacteria and fungi that are known to infect skin wounds and treat them with the nanozyme. This MITACS Globalink Research Award will endow the intern with opportunities to gain high quality training in a variety of approaches to characterize biofilm viability, composition and biocompatibility to mammalian cells using 2D and organoid models. This will facilitate further development of this novel nanozyme-system for the treatment of recalcitrant wound infections.

Faculty Supervisor:

Prasanna Neelakantan

Student:

Partner:

The University of Hong Kong

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

University of Alberta

Program: