Self-redox reaction driven in situ formation of Cu₂O/Ti₃C₂T_x nanosheets boost the photocatalytic eradication of multi-drug resistant bacteria from infected wound

Background: MXenes with interesting optical and electrical properties have been attractive in biomedical applications such as antibacterial and anticancer agents, but their low photogeneration efficiency of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and poor stability are major concerns against microbial resistance. Methods: Water-dispersible single layer Ti₃C₂T_x-based MXene through etching tightly stacked MAX phase precursor using a minimally intensive layer delamination method. After addition of Cu(II) ions, the adsorbed Cu(II) ions underwent self-redox reactions with the surface oxygenated moieties of MXene, leading to in situ formation of Cu₂O species to yield Cu₂O/Ti₃C₂T_x nanosheets (heterostructures). Results: Under NIR irradiation, the Cu₂O enhanced generation of electron–hole pairs, which boosted the photocatalytic production of superoxide and subsequent transformation into hydrogen peroxide. Broad-spectrum antimicrobial performance of Cu₂O/Ti₃C₂T_x nanosheets with sharp edges is attributed to the direct contact-induced membrane disruption, localized photothermal therapy, and in situ generated cytotoxic free radicals. The minimum inhibitory concentration of Cu₂O/Ti₃C₂T_x nanosheets reduced at least tenfold upon NIR laser irradiation compared to pristine Cu₂O/Ti₃C₂T_x nanosheets. The Cu₂O/Ti₃C₂T_x nanosheets were topically administrated on the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infected wounds on diabetic mice. Conclusion: Upon NIR illumination, Cu₂O/Ti₃C₂T_x nanosheets eradicated MRSA and their associated biofilm to promote wound healing. The Cu₂O/Ti₃C₂T_x nanosheets with superior catalytic and photothermal properties have a great scope as an effective antimicrobial modality for the treatment of infected wounds. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]