Simple-Synthesis VO₂ Nanoparticles as Robust Nanozymes for Synergistic Antibacterial Therapy and Abscess Repair

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections represent a major public health threat, urgently demanding novel therapeutic strategies. Nanozymes, offering a unique mechanism of action less prone to inducing resistance, have emerged as promising antibacterial agents. They not only mimic natural enzyme catalysis to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) but also enable synergistic effects when combined with other modalities. However, balancing straightforward synthesis with potent antibacterial efficacy remains challenging. This study introduces easily synthesized VO₂ nanoparticles that effectively mimic natural enzyme activity. When combined with photothermal therapy (PTT), these nanoparticles generate substantial ROS, achieving robust antibacterial effects and significantly impacting biofilm formation and eradication. Furthermore, owing to their favorable biocompatibility, VO₂ modulates relevant macrophage markers, facilitating abscess wound repair. In summary, the developed photothermal-chemodynamic therapy (PTT-CDT) utilizing VO₂ nanoparticles presents a novel strategy for combating MDR bacterial infections.