Researchers have engineered multifunctional SE/S-CDs nanozymes to overcome the limitations of traditional monotherapy for infected wounds. Bacterial infections often delay healing by triggering excessive inflammation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. Consequently, addressing these complex pathological factors simultaneously is essential for effective tissue regeneration. These newly developed nanozymes utilize selenocystine and cysteine precursors to target multiple hallmarks of infection.

How SE/S-CDs Nanozymes Address Oxidative Stress

The integration of selenium and sulfur into carbon dots creates dynamic Se-S bonds. These bonds allow the SE/S-CDs nanozymes to specifically activate the thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) pathway. This activation facilitates efficient ROS scavenging and effectively mitigates local inflammatory responses. Furthermore, the nanozymes exhibit potent antibacterial activity. They achieve this by compromising the integrity of bacterial cell membranes, ensuring robust pathogen clearance from the wound site. Moreover, this dual-action approach prevents the secondary damage typically caused by persistent inflammation.

Promoting Angiogenesis and Tissue Repair

Beyond infection control, these nanozymes target the hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) signaling pathway. By upregulating this pathway, the SE/S-CDs nanozymes promote the expression of proangiogenic genes. This biological process accelerates neovascularization, which is critical for restoring blood flow and nutrients to damaged tissues. Notably, the coordinated antibacterial-anti-inflammatory-antioxidant-proangiogenic cascade results in superior integrated therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, this technology holds significant translational potential for treating chronic infections and oxidative stress-driven diseases in clinical practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes SE/S-CDs nanozymes different from traditional antibiotics?

Unlike standard antibiotics that only target bacteria, SE/S-CDs nanozymes also manage oxidative stress and promote blood vessel growth to accelerate the entire regenerative process.

How do these nanozymes reduce wound inflammation?

They activate the thioredoxin reductase pathway through dynamic Se-S bonds, which helps clear the excessive reactive oxygen species that drive persistent inflammation.

Can this technology be used for other types of infections?

While primarily tested on wounds, researchers believe these nanozymes have potential for other diseases driven by both infection and oxidative stress due to their multifunctional nature.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

1. Huang J et al. Multifunctional Selenium-Sulfur-Doped Carbon Dots Nanozymes with Thioredoxin Reductase Activity for Regenerative Therapy of Infected Wounds. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces. 2026 Feb 24. doi: 10.1021/acsami.5c20140. PMID: 41734380.


2. Liang M, Yan X. Nanozymes: From Concept to Application. Acc Chem Res. 2019;52(8):2190-2200.


3. Zhu Y et al. Multifunctional Carbon-Based Nanocomposite Hydrogels for Wound Healing and Health Management. MDPI Pharmaceutics. 2025;17(5):650.