Nickel–iron nanozyme with photothermal-enhanced peroxidase-like catalysis for treating methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infected wounds

Escalating global antibiotic consumption, driven by advancements in medical interventions, has accelerated the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) pathogens. The synergistic challenge of AMR and biofilm formation not only imposes a massive economic toll but also severely compromises patient quality of life. This study develops a novel therapeutic approach leveraging photothermal enhancement of NiFe-N-C nanozyme's peroxidase-like (POD-like) activity, which synergizes photothermal therapy with chemodynamic catalysis. In vitro and murine infection models demonstrate its potent antibacterial and anti-biofilm efficacy. Mechanistically, this strategy modulates macrophage polarization, regulates immune factor secretion, and induces neovascularization, thereby accelerating wound repair. Collectively, NiFe-N-C exhibits superior infection control and wound-healing promotion capabilities. Beyond its therapeutic efficacy, NiFe-N-C features excellent biocompatibility, biosafety, and cost-effectiveness. This work establishes photothermal-augmented nanozyme catalysis as a promising non-antibiotic strategy for combating resistant bacterial infections and promoting tissue repair.