A sustainable strategy of plant-derived nanozyme and polysaccharide microneedles for multifunctional therapy of infected wounds

The development of multifunctional wound dressings from sustainable resources is critical to advancing green biomedical materials for effective wound repair. In this study, we present an eco-friendly microneedle delivery platform (LutCe-QCS-GP MN) with integrated reactive oxygen scavenging and antibacterial functions. The system features a sustainable nanozyme (LutCe), formed by self-assembly of the plant-derived flavonoid luteolin and cerium ions, which exhibits robust superoxide dismutase-like activity. These LutCe nanozymes organic-inorganic hybrids were synthesized through a green assembly process and demonstrate potent scavenging capability against superoxide anions, hydroxyl radicals, and reactive nitrogen species. Incorporated into the tips of the microneedles, they directly alleviate oxidative stress at the wound site. Simultaneously, an antimicrobial polysaccharide-based matrix provides effective defense against wound pathogens, preventing infection and secondary tissue damage. By synergistically combining sustainable antioxidant nanozymes with natural antibacterial components, the LutCe-QCS-GP MN system significantly reduced oxidative stress and bacterial load in wounds, markedly accelerating the healing process. Comprehensive in vitro and in vivo safety evaluations support the biosafety of the platform, underscoring its potential for clinical translation. This work not only introduces a promising therapeutic strategy for wound management but also highlights the valorization of natural, sustainable resources in functional material design, offering a meaningful reference for green technology applications in biomedicine.