Triple-functional hydrogel tackles resistant infections
image: Scheme for an antibacterial oligomer-based hydrogel with a multi-mode mechanism including membrane disruption, DNA targeting and ROS damage
Credit: HIGHER EDUCATON PRESS
The rising threat of antibiotic resistance makes treating skin wound infections, particularly those caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria, a major clinical challenge. While hydrogels are common wound dressings, they often fail against resistant pathogens.
Researchers prepared a novel antimicrobial hydrogel by integrating a biodegradable cationic oligomer, called oligoamidine (OA1), into a thermosensitive Pluronic F-127 hydrogel. Unlike conventional antibiotic-loaded dressings, OA1 attacks bacteria through three distinct mechanisms: disrupting bacterial membranes, binding to bacterial DNA, and inducing oxidative stress. This multi-target approach helps overcome resistance and enhances antibacterial efficacy.
The resulting PF127-OA1 hydrogel is easy to prepare—simply mixing the components at low temperature forms a solution that turns into a stable gel at body temperature. This allows convenient application and close adherence to wound surfaces. Experiments showed that the hydrogel maintains the potent antibacterial activity of OA1, effectively killing a range of drug-resistant bacteria, including MRSA and other ESKAPE pathogens. It also demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and protective effects in ex vivo and in vivo infection models.
This work provides a modular and user-friendly platform for treating resistant wound infections, combining the benefits of a degradable antimicrobial agent with a smart hydrogel delivery system.
The work titled “A biodegradable antimicrobial oligomer-containing hydrogel for drug-resistant bacteria-infected skin wound treatment” was published in Pharmaceutical Science Advances (published online August 22, 2025).