A multimodal antimicrobial platform based on MXene for treatment of wound infection

3D-bioprinting of MXenes: Developments, medical applications, challenges, and future roadmap

MXenes is a member of 2D transition metals carbides and nitrides with promising application prospects in energy storage, sensing, nanomedicine, tissue engineering, catalysis, and electronics. In the current era, MXenes have been widely applied in biomedical applications due to their unique rheological and electrochemical attributes. They have a larger surface area with more active sites, higher conductivity, lower cytotoxicity, and greater biocompatibility, making them highly suitable candidates for in-vivo biomedical applications. Due to recent advancemnets in MXenes 3D bioprinting, they are widely applied in regenerative medicine to combat challenges in suitable transplantation of tissues and organs. However, 3D bioprinting of MXenes has several complexities based on cell type, cytotoxicity, cell viability, and differentiation. To address these intricacies, surface modifications of MXene materials are done, which makes them highly fascinating for the 3D printing of tissues and organs. In the current review, we summarized recent progress in 3D bioprinting of MXene materials to construct scaffolds with desired rheological and biological properties, focusing on their potential applications in cancer phototherapy, tissue engineering, bone regeneration, and biosensing. We also discussed parameters affecting their biomedical applications and possible solutions by applying surface modifications. In addition, we addressed current challenges and future roadmaps for 3D bioprinting of MXene materials, such as generating high throughput 3D printed tissue constructs, drug delivery, drug discovery, and toxicology.

MXenes as emerging materials to repair electroactive tissues and organs

Nanomaterials with electroactive properties have taken a big leap for tissue repair and regeneration due to their unique physiochemical properties and biocompatibility. MXenes, an emerging class of electroactive materials have generated considerable interest for their biomedical applications from bench to bedside. Recently, the application of these two-dimensional wonder materials have been extensively investigated in the areas of biosensors, bioimaging and repair of electroactive organs, owing to their outstanding electromechanical properties, photothermal capabilities, hydrophilicity, and flexibility. The currently available data reports that there is significant potential to employ MXene nanomaterials for repair, regeneration and functioning of electroactive tissues and organs such as brain, spinal cord, heart, bone, skeletal muscle and skin. The current review is the first report that compiles the most recent advances in the application of MXenes in bioelectronics and the development of biomimetic scaffolds for repair, regeneration and functioning of electroactive tissues and organs including heart, nervous system, skin, bone and skeletal muscle. The content in this article focuses on unique features of MXenes, synthesis process, with emphasis on MXene-based electroactive tissue engineering constructs, biosensors and wearable biointerfaces. Additionally, a section on the future of MXenes is presented with a focus on the clinical applications of MXenes.

MXenes in the application of diabetic foot: mechanisms, therapeutic implications and future perspectives

Diabetic foot represents a significant healthcare challenge, accounting for a substantial portion of diabetes-related hospitalizations and amputations globally. The complexity of diabetic foot management stems from the interplay of poor glycemic control, neuropathy, and peripheral vascular disease, which hinder wound healing processes. The high incidence, recurrence, and amputation rates associated with diabetic foot underscore the urgency for innovative treatment strategies. Recent advancements in nanotechnology, particularly the emergence of MXenes (two-dimensional transition metal carbides and/or nitrides), have shown promising potential in addressing these challenges by offering unique physicochemical and biological properties suitable for various biomedical applications. It is a novel potential strategy for diabetic foot wound healing in the future. This review comprehensively summarizes current knowledge, unique characteristics, and underlying mechanisms of MXenes in the context of diabetic foot management. Additionally, we propose the potential application of MXenes-based therapeutic strategies in diabetes foot. Furthermore, we also provide an overview of their current challenges and the future perspectives in related fields of diabetic wound healing.

Recent advances in structural and functional design of electrospun nanofibers for wound healing

The global prevalence of acute and chronic wounds has surged, escalating healthcare burdens and necessitating advanced therapeutic strategies for effective wound management. Electrospun nanofibers have emerged as promising biomimetic platforms for tissue engineering and drug delivery, due to their structural resemblance to the native extracellular matrix (ECM), high porosity, and tunable surface-to-volume ratio. Recent advances in structural design have expanded their applications from conventional two-dimensional (2D) wound dressings to multifunctional three-dimensional (3D) architectures, enabling enhanced mechanical adaptability, bioactive molecule loading, and spatiotemporal control over wound microenvironments. These innovations leverage nanofibers' customizable topography and composition to recapitulate critical ECM cues, thereby fostering cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and immunomodulation during tissue regeneration. This review systematically evaluates cutting-edge strategies focusing on optimizing 2D arrangements and the structural design of multilayered and functionally patterned 3D electrospun nanofibers in wound healing applications. We further present the advantages and limitations of various nanofiber structures, along with the key challenges and future directions for advancing electrospun nanofibers specifically designed for enhanced wound healing.

Chitosan and polyvinyl alcohol-based bilayer electrospun nanofibrous membrane incorporated with astaxanthin promotes diabetic wound healing by addressing multiple factors

Delayed diabetic wound regeneration can be attributed to multiple underlying factors, including bacterial infection, endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS), impaired angiogenesis and exaggerated inflammatory response. Here, a bilayer electrospun nanofibrous membrane (ENM) was fabricated through sequential electrospinning to accelerate diabetic wound healing by addressing aforementioned challenges. For the purpose, nano Zinc Oxide was mixed into chitosan as the bottom layer of ENM (CS/ZnO NPs), while astaxanthin (AST) was encapsulated in a composite nanofibrous membrane of polyvinyl alcohol, chitosan and Ti3C2TX MXene (PVA/CS/MXene) as the upper layer, thus preparing the bilayer CZ/PCM@AST ENM, which reflected the therapeutic properties of spatial structure distribution and time series on diabetic wounds. The bilayer CZ/PCM@AST ENM was verified to possess sufficient biocompatibility and effective antibacterial properties on E. coli and S. aureus. Furthermore, the ENM facilitated sustained AST release at inflammatory sites, effectively scavenging excessive ROS and inhibiting inflammatory responses, ultimately accelerating diabetic wound healing, as demonstrated through both in vitro and in vivo evaluations. In summary, the multi-effect combination strategy improved complicated pathological microenvironment of wound sites, thereby presenting a promising method in diabetic wound treatment.

MXenes and MXene-based composites for biomedical applications

MXenes, a novel class of two-dimensional materials, have recently emerged as promising candidates for biomedical applications due to their specific structural features and exceptional physicochemical and biological properties. These materials, characterized by unique structural features and superior conductivity, have applications in tissue engineering, cancer detection and therapy, sensing, imaging, drug delivery, wound treatment, antimicrobial therapy, and medical implantation. Additionally, MXene-based composites, incorporating polymers, metals, carbon nanomaterials, and metal oxides, offer enhanced electroactive and mechanical properties, making them highly suitable for engineering electroactive organs such as the heart, skeletal muscle, and nerves. However, several challenges, including biocompatibility, functional stability, and scalable synthesis methods, remain critical for advancing their clinical use. This review comprehensively overviews MXenes and MXene-based composites, their synthesis, properties, and broad biomedical applications. Furthermore, it highlights the latest progress, ongoing challenges, and future perspectives, aiming to inspire innovative approaches to harnessing these versatile materials for next-generation medical solutions.

Engineered MXene Biomaterials for Regenerative Medicine

MXene-based materials have attracted significant interest due to their distinct physical and chemical properties, which are relevant to fields such as energy storage, environmental science, and biomedicine. MXene has shown potential in the area of tissue regenerative medicine. However, research on its applications in tissue regeneration is still in its early stages, with a notable absence of comprehensive reviews. This review begins with a detailed description of the intrinsic properties of MXene, followed by a discussion of the various nanostructures that MXene can form, spanning from 0 to 3 dimensions. The focus then shifts to the applications of MXene-based biomaterials in tissue engineering, particularly in immunomodulation, wound healing, bone regeneration, and nerve regeneration. MXene's physicochemical properties, including conductivity, photothermal characteristics, and antibacterial properties, facilitate interactions with different cell types, influencing biological processes. These interactions highlight its potential in modulating cellular functions essential for tissue regeneration. Although the research on MXene in tissue regeneration is still developing, its versatile structural and physicochemical attributes suggest its potential role in advancing regenerative medicine.

A review of sodium alginate-based hydrogels: Structure, mechanisms, applications, and perspectives

With the global emphasis on green and sustainable development, sodium alginate-based hydrogels (SAHs), as a renewable and biocompatible environmental material, have garnered widespread attention for their research and application. This review summarizes the latest advancements in the study of SAHs, thoroughly discussing their structural characteristics, formation mechanisms, and current applications in various fields, as well as prospects for future development. Initially, the chemical structure of SA and the network structure of hydrogels are introduced, and the impact of factors such as molecular weight, crosslinking density, and environmental conditions on the hydrogel structure is explored. Subsequently, the formation mechanisms of SAHs, including physical and chemical crosslinking, are detailed. Furthermore, a systematic review of the applications of SAHs in tissue engineering, drug delivery, medical dressings, wastewater treatment, strain sensor, and food science is provided. Finally, future research directions for SAHs are outlined. This work not only offers researchers a comprehensive framework for the study of SAHs but also provides significant theoretical and experimental foundations for the development of new hydrogel materials.

MXene-Derived Multifunctional Biomaterials: New Opportunities for Wound Healing

The process of wound healing is frequently impeded by metabolic imbalances within the wound microenvironment. MXenes exhibit exceptional biocompatibility, biodegradability, photothermal conversion efficiency, conductivity, and adaptable surface functionalization, demonstrating marked potential in the development of multifunctional platforms for wound healing. Moreover, the integration of MXenes with other bioactive nanomaterials has been shown to enhance their therapeutic efficacy, paving the way for innovative approaches to wound healing. In this review, we provide a systematic exposition of the mechanisms through which MXenes facilitate wound healing and offer a comprehensive analysis of the current research landscape on MXene-based multifunctional bioactive composites in this field. By delving into the latest scientific discoveries, we identify the existing challenges and potential future trajectories for the advancement of MXenes. Our comprehensive evaluation aims to provide insightful guidance for the formulation of more effective wound healing strategies.

A Review on MXene/Nanocellulose Composites: Toward Wearable Multifunctional Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Application

With the rapid development of mobile communication technology and wearable electronic devices, the electromagnetic radiation generated by high-frequency information exchange inevitably threatens human health, so high-performance wearable electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials are urgently needed. The 2D nanomaterial MXene exhibits superior EMI shielding performance owing to its high conductivity, however, its mechanical properties are limited due to the high porosity between MXene nanosheets. In recent years, it has been reported that by introducing natural nanocellulose as an organic framework, the EMI shielding and mechanical properties of MXene/nanocellulose composites can be synergically improved, which are expected to be widely used in wearable multifunctional shielding devices. In this review, the electromagnetic wave (EMW) attenuation mechanism of EMI shielding materials is briefly introduced, and the latest progress of MXene/nanocellulose composites in wearable multifunctional EMI shielding applications is comprehensively reviewed, wherein the advantages and disadvantages of different preparation methods and various types of composites are summarized. Finally, the challenges and perspectives are discussed, regarding the performance improvement, the performance control mechanism, and the large-scale production of MXene/nanocellulose composites. This review can provide guidance on the design of flexible MXene/nanocellulose composites for multifunctional electromagnetic protection applications in the future intelligent wearable field.

Two-Dimensional MXenes: Innovative Materials for Efficient Thermal Management and Safety Solutions

MXenes, a class of 2-dimensional transition metal carbides and nitrides, have garnered important attention due to their remarkable electrical and thermal conductivity, high photothermal conversion efficiency, and multifunctionality. This review explores the potential of MXene materials in various thermal applications, including thermal energy storage, heat dissipation in electronic devices, and the mitigation of electromagnetic interference in wearable technologies. Recent advancements in MXene composites, such as MXene/bacterial cellulose aerogel films and MXene/polymer composites, have demonstrated enhanced performance in phase change thermal storage and electromagnetic interference shielding, underscoring their versatility and effectiveness. Although notable progress has been made, challenges remain, including the need for a deeper understanding of photothermal conversion mechanisms, improvements in mechanical properties, exploration of diverse MXene types, and the development of sustainable synthesis methods. This paper discusses these aspects and outlines future research directions, emphasizing the growing importance of MXenes in addressing energy efficiency, health, and safety concerns in modern applications.

Drug-Eluting and Antibacterial Core-Shell Polycaprolactone/Pectin Nanofibers Containing Ti3C2Tx MXene and Medical Herbs for Wound Dressings

Fibrous scaffolds capable of delivering natural drugs and herbs show great promise for tissue regeneration and wound care, particularly in personalized medicine. This study presents the fabrication and characterization of drug-eluting antibacterial core-shell mats composed of polycaprolactone (PCL) and pectin nanofibers produced through coaxial electrospinning. Berberine chloride (BBR), an herbal compound with antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory, antilipidemic, and antidiabetic properties, served as the model drug. Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) was blended with pectin to enhance the mechanical properties of the core fibers. The shell was modified with two-dimensional Ti3C2Tx (MXene) nanosheets and subjected to covalent and ionic cross-linking. Structural analysis confirmed the successful production of bead-free fibers with diameters ranging from 160 to 350 nm, depending on composition. The PCL core fibers were uniformly coated with a pectin/PVA shell approximately 90 nm thick. The inclusion of BBR and MXene increased the fiber diameter. Drug-release kinetics, modeled by using Korsmeyer-Peppas, revealed a two-stage release mechanism. An initial burst release occurred within the first 24 h (kinetic exponent n = 1.36), followed by sustained release over 2 weeks (n = 0.48). The release mechanisms were identified as case-II relaxational release in the first stage, transitioning to quasi-Fickian diffusion in the second. Incorporating MXene into the shell further prolonged drug release. The mechanical strength of the scaffolds improved significantly by a factor of 7 and 4 in wet and dry conditions, respectively. In vitro biocompatibility assays using L929 cells demonstrated excellent cell attachment and compatibility. Additionally, antibacterial tests against Escherichia coli showed that the inclusion of MXene enhanced antibacterial activity by 30%. These results suggest that the functional biocomposite scaffolds hold the potential for developing innovative, drug-eluting wound dressings.

Emerging nanomaterials for novel wound dressings: From metallic nanoparticles and MXene nanosheets to metal-organic frameworks

The growing need for developing reliable and efficient wound dressings has led to recent progress in designing novel materials and formulations for different kinds of wounds caused by traumas, burns, surgeries, and diabetes. In cases of extreme urgency, accelerating wound recovery is of high importance to prevent persistent infection and biofilm formation. The application of nanotechnology in this domain resulted in the creation of distinct nanoplatforms for highly advanced wound-healing therapeutic approaches. Recently developed nanomaterials have been used as antibacterial agents or drug carriers to control wound infection. In the present review, the authors aim to review the recently published research on the effects of incorporating emerging nanomaterials into novel wound dressings and investigate their distinct roles in the wound healing process. It was determined that the metallic nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit antimicrobial and regenerative properties, metal oxide NPs regulate inflammation and promote tissue regeneration, MXene NPs enhance cell adhesion and proliferation, while metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) offer controlled drug delivery capabilities. Further research is required to fully understand the mechanisms and optimize the applications of these NPs in wound healing.

Antibacterial and wound healing stimulant nanofibrous dressing consisting of soluplus and soy protein isolate loaded with mupirocin

Severe cutaneous injuries may not heal spontaneously and may necessitate the use of supplementary therapeutic methods. Electrospun nanofibers possess high porosity and specific surface area, which provide the necessary microenvironment for wound healing. Here in, the nanofibers of Soluplus-soy protein isolate (Sol-SPI) containing mupirocin (Mp) were fabricated via electrospinning for wound treatment. The fabricated nanofibers exhibited water absorption capacities of about 300.83 ± 29.72% and water vapor permeability values of about 821.8 ± 49.12 g/m2 day. The Sol/SPI/Mp nanofibers showed an in vitro degradability of 33.73 ± 3.55% after 5 days. The ultimate tensile strength, elastic modulus, and elongation of the Sol/SPI/Mp nanofibers were measured as 3.61 ± 0.29 MPa, 39.15 ± 5.08 MPa, and 59.11 ± 1.94%, respectively. Additionally, 85.90 ± 6.02% of Mp loaded in the nanofibers was released in 5 days in vitro, and by applying the Mp-loaded nanofibers, 93.06 ± 5.40% and 90.40 ± 5.66% of S. aureus and E. coli bacteria were killed, respectively. Human keratinocyte cells (HaCat) demonstrated notable biocompatibility with the prepared nanofibers. Furthermore, compare to other groups, Sol-SPI-Mp nanofibers caused the fastest re-epithelialization and wound healing in a rat model. The findings of this study present a novel nanofiber-based wound dressing that accelerates the healing of severe skin wounds with the risk of infection.

Multifunctional injectable oxidized sodium alginate/carboxymethyl chitosan hydrogel for rapid hemostasis

Uncontrolled bleeding from incompressible or irregularly shaped wounds is a major factor in the death of people in the battlefield or surgery process. Ideal rapid hemostatic materials should have the performance of rapid hemostasis and at the same time can be applied to a variety of complex wound trauma types, in addition, excellent antimicrobial properties, adhesion, biocompatibility, degradation, and the non-toxicity of degradation products are also necessary, but there are fewer hemostatic materials that meet these requirements. Herein, we prepared an injectable hemostatic hydrogel based on the natural products sodium alginate (SA) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC). Oxidized sodium alginate (OSA) was prepared by the oxidation reaction of NaIO4 with SA, and OSA with aldehyde group was mixed with CMC with amino group to rapidly form an in situ injectable hemostatic hydrogel (OSA/CMC) by the Schiff base reaction. OSA/CMC hydrogel exhibited excellent antimicrobial and adhesion properties by the Schiff base reaction. In addition, OSA/CMC hydrogel directly activate the endogenous coagulation pathway through the synergistic effect of OSA, CMC to enhance the hemostatic effect. The results of in vivo hemostasis study showed that OSA/CMC hydrogel significantly accelerated hemostasis and reduced blood loss in liver hemorrhage model and tail amputation model. Therefore, OSA/CMC hydrogel is expected to be a potential material in the direction of rapid clinical hemostasis due to its good adhesion properties, antimicrobial properties, biocompatibility, blood compatibility, and efficient rapid hemostasis.

Advanced approaches in skin wound healing - a review on the multifunctional properties of MXenes in therapy and sensing

In recent years, the use of MXenes, a class of two-dimensional materials composed of transition metal carbides, nitrides, or carbonitrides, has shown significant promise in the field of skin wound healing. This review explores the multifunctional properties of MXenes, focusing on their electrical conductivity, photothermal effects, and biocompatibility in this field. MXenes have been utilized to develop advanced wound healing devices such as hydrogels, patches, and smart bandages for healing examination. These devices offer enhanced antibacterial activity, promote tissue regeneration, and provide real-time monitoring of parameters. The review highlights the synthesis methods, chemical features, and biological effects of MXenes, emphasizing their role in innovative skin repair strategies. Additionally, it discusses the potential of MXene-based sensors for humidity, pH, and temperature monitoring, which are crucial for preventing infections and complications in wound healing. The integration of MXenes into wearable devices represents a significant advancement in wound management, promising improved clinical outcomes and enhanced quality of life for patients.

Two-dimensional nanomaterials: A multifunctional approach for robust for diabetic wound repair

Diabetic wounds pose a clinical challenge due to persistent inflammation, severe bacterial infections, inadequate vascularization, and pronounced oxidative stress. Current therapeutic modalities fail to provide satisfactory outcomes in managing these conditions, resulting in considerable patient distress. Two-dimensional nanomaterials (2DNMs), characterized by their unique nanosheet structures, expansive surface areas, and remarkable physicochemical properties, have garnered considerable attention for their potential in therapeutic applications. Emerging 2DNMs can be loaded with various pharmacological agents, including small molecules, metal ions, and liposomes. Moreover, they can be integrated with various biomaterials such as hydrogels, microneedles, and microspheres, thus demonstrating unprecedented advantages in expediting the healing process of diabetic wounds. Moreover, 2DNMs exhibit exceptional performance characteristics, including high biocompatibility, effective antimicrobial properties, optimal phototherapeutic effects, and enhanced electrostimulation capabilities. These properties enable them to modulate the wound microenvironment, leading to widespread application in tissue repair with remarkable outcomes. This review delineates several emerging 2DNMs, such as graphene and its derivatives, black phosphorus, MXenes, and transition metal dichalcogenides, in the context of diabetic wound repair. Furthermore, it elucidates the translational challenges and future perspectives of 2DNMs in wound healing treatments. Overall, 2DNMs present a highly promising strategy for ameliorating diabetic wounds, thus providing novel avenues for diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in diabetic wound management.

Synergistic integration of MXene nanostructures into electrospun fibers for advanced biomedical engineering applications

MXene-based architectures have paved the way in various fields, particularly in healthcare area, owing to their remarkable physiochemical and electromagnetic characteristics. Moreover, the modification of MXene structures and their combination with polymeric networks have gained considerable prominence to further develop their features. The combination of electrospun fibers with MXenes would be promising in this regard since electrospinning is a well-established technique that is now being directed toward commercial biomedical applications. The introduction of MXenes into electrospun fibrous frameworks has highlighted outcomes in various biomedical applications, including cancer therapy, controlled drug delivery, antimicrobial targets, sensors, and tissue engineering. Correspondingly, this review describes the employed strategies for the preparation of electrospun configurations in tandem with MXene nanostructures with remarkable characteristics. Next, the advantages of MXene-decorated electrospun fibers for use in biomedical applications are comprehensively discussed. According to the investigations, rich surface functional groups, hydrophilicity, large surface area, photothermal features, and antimicrobial and antibacterial activities of MXenes could synergize the performance of electrospun layers to engineer versatile biomedical targets. Moreover, the future of this path is clarified to combat the challenges related to the electrospun fibers decorated with MXene nanosheets.

Advancements in employing two-dimensional nanomaterials for enhancing skin wound healing: a review of current practice

The two-dimensional nanomaterials are characterized by their ultra-thin structure, diverse chemical functional groups, and remarkable anisotropic properties. Since its discovery in 2004, graphene has attracted significant scientific interest due to its potential applications in various fields, including electronics, energy systems, and biomedicine. In medicine, graphene is used for designing smart drug delivery systems, especially for antibiotics, and biosensing. Skin trauma is a prevalent dermatological condition that increasingly contributes to morbidities and mortalities, thus representing a significant health burden. During tissue damage, rapid skin repair is crucial to prevent blood loss and infection. Therefore, drugs used for skin trauma must possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials possess remarkable physical, chemical, optical, and biological characteristics due to their uniform shape, increased surface area, and surface charge. Graphene and its derivatives, transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), black phosphorous (BP), hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), MXene, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are among the commonly used 2D nanomaterials. Moreover, they exhibit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This review presents a comprehensive discussion of the clinical approaches employed for wound healing treatment and explores the applications of commonly used 2D nanomaterials to enhance wound healing outcomes.

MXene-based composites in smart wound healing and dressings

MXenes, a class of two-dimensional materials, exhibit considerable potential in wound healing and dressing applications due to their distinctive attributes, including biocompatibility, expansive specific surface area, hydrophilicity, excellent electrical conductivity, unique mechanical properties, facile surface functionalization, and tunable band gaps. These materials serve as a foundation for the development of advanced wound healing materials, offering multifunctional nanoplatforms with theranostic capabilities. Key advantages of MXene-based materials in wound healing and dressings encompass potent antibacterial properties, hemostatic potential, pro-proliferative attributes, photothermal effects, and facilitation of cell growth. So far, different types of MXene-based materials have been introduced with improved features for wound healing and dressing applications. This review covers the recent advancements in MXene-based wound healing and dressings, with a focus on their contributions to tissue regeneration, infection control, anti-inflammation, photothermal effects, and targeted therapeutic delivery. We also discussed the constraints and prospects for the future application of these nanocomposites in the context of wound healing/dressings.

Research Progress on Ti3C2Tx-Based Composite Materials in Antibacterial Field

The integration of two-dimensional Ti3C2Tx nanosheets and other materials offers broader application options in the antibacterial field. Ti3C2Tx-based composites demonstrate synergistic physical, chemical, and photodynamic antibacterial activity. In this review, we aim to explore the potential of Ti3C2Tx-based composites in the fabrication of an antibiotic-free antibacterial agent with a focus on their systematic classification, manufacturing technology, and application potential. We investigate various components of Ti3C2Tx-based composites, such as metals, metal oxides, metal sulfides, organic frameworks, photosensitizers, etc. We also summarize the fabrication techniques used for preparing Ti3C2Tx-based composites, including solution mixing, chemical synthesis, layer-by-layer self-assembly, electrostatic assembly, and three-dimensional (3D) printing. The most recent developments in antibacterial application are also thoroughly discussed, with special attention to the medical, water treatment, food preservation, flexible textile, and industrial sectors. Ultimately, the future directions and opportunities are delineated, underscoring the focus of further research, such as elucidating microscopic mechanisms, achieving a balance between biocompatibility and antibacterial efficiency, and investigating effective, eco-friendly synthesis techniques combined with intelligent technology. A survey of the literature provides a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art developments in Ti3C2Tx-based composites and their potential applications in various fields. This comprehensive review covers the variety, preparation methods, and applications of Ti3C2Tx-based composites, drawing upon a total of 171 English-language references. Notably, 155 of these references are from the past five years, indicating significant recent progress and interest in this research area.

Biofouling mitigation of Nb2AlC and Mo3AlC2 MXene-precursors doped polyether sulfone mixed matrix membranes for pathogen microorganisms

This study explores the incorporation of Nb2AlC and Mo3AlC2 MAX phases, known for their nano-layered structure, into polyether sulfone (PES) membranes to enhance their antifouling and permeability properties for pathogen microorganism filtration against bovine serum albumin (BSA) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). The composite membranes were characterized for their structural and morphological properties, and their performance in mitigating biofouling was evaluated. The structural characterizations have been performed for all the prepared MAX phases and corresponding composite membranes. The antioxidant ability of Nb2AlC and Mo3AlC2 MAX phases was defined by the DPPH radical scavenging assay, and the highest antioxidant ability was found to be 59.35 %, while 53.69 % scavenging potential was recorded at 100 mg/L. The percentage scavenging ability was raised with an increase in concentrations. The antimicrobial properties of MAX phases, evaluated as the minimum inhibitory concentration, were stated against several pathogen microorganisms. The tested compounds of Nb2AlC and Mo3AlC2 composites containing MAX phases exhibited excellent chemical nuclease activity, and it was determined that Nb2AlC caused double strand DNA cleavage activity while Mo3AlC2 induced the complete fragmentation of the DNA molecule. Biofilm inhibition of Nb2AlC and Mo3AlC2 MAX phases was studied against Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the maximum biofilm inhibition of Nb2AlC and Mo3AlC2 MAX phases was found to be 77.15 % and 69.07 % against S. aureus and also 69.74 % and 65.01 % against P. aeruginosa. Furthermore, Nb2AlC and Mo3AlC2 MAX phases demonstrated excellent E. coli growth inhibition of 100 % at 125 and 250 mg/L.

Architectural design and affecting factors of MXene-based textronics for real-world application

Today, textile-based wearable electronic devices (textronics) have been developed by taking advantage of nanotechnology and textile substrates. Textile substrates offer flexibility, air permeability, breathability, and wearability, whereas, using nanomaterials offers numerous functional properties, like electrical conductivity, hydrophobicity, touch sensitivity, self-healing properties, joule heating properties, and many more. For these reasons, textronics have been extensively used in many applications. Recently, new emerging two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbide and nitride, known as MXene, nanomaterials have been highly considered for developing textronics because the surface functional groups and hydrophilicity of MXene nanoflakes allow the facile fabrication of MXene-based textronics. In addition, MXene nanosheets possess excellent electroconductivity and mechanical properties as well as large surface area, which also give numerous opportunities to develop novel functional MXene/textile-based wearable electronic devices. Therefore, this review summarizes the recent advancements in the architectural design of MXene-based textronics, like fiber, yarn, and fabric. Regarding the fabrication of MXene/textile composites, numerous factors affect the functional properties (e.g. fabric structure, MXene size, etc.). All the crucial affecting parameters, which should be chosen carefully during the fabrication process, are critically discussed here. Next, the recent applications of MXene-based textronics in supercapacitors, thermotherapy, and sensors are elaborately delineated. Finally, the existing challenges and future scopes associated with the development of MXene-based textronics are presented.

Ti3C2 nanosheet-induced autophagy derails ovarian functions

BACKGROUND

Two-dimensional ultrathin Ti3C2 (MXene) nanosheets have gained significant attention in various biomedical applications. Although previous studies have described the accumulation and associated damage of Ti3C2 nanosheets in the testes and placenta. However, it is currently unclear whether Ti3C2 nanosheets can be translocated to the ovaries and cause ovarian damage, thereby impairing ovarian functions.

RESULTS

We established a mouse model with different doses (1.25, 2.5, and 5 mg/kg bw/d) of Ti3C2 nanosheets injected intravenously for three days. We demonstrated that Ti3C2 nanosheets can enter the ovaries and were internalized by granulosa cells, leading to a decrease in the number of primary, secondary and antral follicles. Furthermore, the decrease in follicles is closely associated with higher levels of FSH and LH, as well as increased level of E2 and P4, and decreased level of T in mouse ovary. In further studies, we found that exposure toTi3C2 nanosheets increased the levels of Beclin1, ATG5, and the ratio of LC3II/Ι, leading to autophagy activation. Additionally, the level of P62 increased, resulting in autophagic flux blockade. Ti3C2 nanosheets can activate autophagy through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, with oxidative stress playing an important role in this process. Therefore, we chose the ovarian granulosa cell line (KGN cells) for in vitro validation of the impact of autophagy on the hormone secretion capability. The inhibition of autophagy initiation by 3-Methyladenine (3-MA) promoted smooth autophagic flow, thereby partially reduced the secretion of estradiol and progesterone by KGN cells; Whereas blocking autophagic flux by Rapamycin (RAPA) further exacerbated the secretion of estradiol and progesterone in cells.

CONCLUSION

Ti3C2 nanosheet-induced increased secretion of hormones in the ovary is mediated through the activation of autophagy and impairment of autophagic flux, which disrupts normal follicular development. These results imply that autophagy dysfunction may be one of the underlying mechanisms of Ti3C2-induced damage to ovarian granulosa cells. Our findings further reveal the mechanism of female reproductive toxicity induced by Ti3C2 nanosheets.

Biomimetic Materials for Skin Tissue Regeneration and Electronic Skin

Biomimetic materials have become a promising alternative in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine to address critical challenges in wound healing and skin regeneration. Skin-mimetic materials have enormous potential to improve wound healing outcomes and enable innovative diagnostic and sensor applications. Human skin, with its complex structure and diverse functions, serves as an excellent model for designing biomaterials. Creating effective wound coverings requires mimicking the unique extracellular matrix composition, mechanical properties, and biochemical cues. Additionally, integrating electronic functionality into these materials presents exciting possibilities for real-time monitoring, diagnostics, and personalized healthcare. This review examines biomimetic skin materials and their role in regenerative wound healing, as well as their integration with electronic skin technologies. It discusses recent advances, challenges, and future directions in this rapidly evolving field.

Development of novel hybrid 3D-printed degradable artificial joints incorporating electrospun pharmaceutical- and growth factor-loaded nanofibers for small joint reconstruction

Small joint reconstruction remains challenging and can lead to prosthesis-related complications, mainly due to the suboptimal performance of the silicone materials used and adverse host reactions. In this study, we developed hybrid artificial joints using three-dimensional printing (3D printing) for polycaprolactone (PCL) and incorporated electrospun nanofibers loaded with drugs and biomolecules for small joint reconstruction. We evaluated the mechanical properties of the degradable joints and the drug discharge patterns of the nanofibers. Empirical data revealed that the 3D-printed PCL joints exhibited good mechanical and fatigue properties. The drug-eluting nanofibers sustainedly released teicoplanin, ceftazidime, and ketorolac in vitro for over 30, 19, and 30 days, respectively. Furthermore, the nanofibers released high levels of bone morphogenetic protein-2 and connective tissue growth factors for over 30 days. An in vivo animal test demonstrated that nanofiber-loaded joints released high concentrations of antibiotics and analgesics in a rabbit model for 28 days. The animals in the drug-loaded degradable joint group showed greater activity counts than those in the surgery-only group. The experimental data suggest that degradable joints with sustained release of drugs and biomolecules may be utilized in small joint arthroplasty.

Revolutionizing Infection Control: Harnessing MXene-Based Nanostructures for Versatile Antimicrobial Strategies and Healthcare Advancements

The escalating global health challenge posed by infections prompts the exploration of innovative solutions utilizing MXene-based nanostructures. Societally, the need for effective antimicrobial strategies is crucial for public health, while scientifically, MXenes present promising properties for therapeutic applications, necessitating scalable production and comprehensive characterization techniques. Here we review the versatile physicochemical properties of MXene materials for combatting microbial threats and their various synthesis methods, including etching and top-down or bottom-up techniques. Crucial characterization techniques such as XRD, Raman spectroscopy, SEM/TEM, FTIR, XPS, and BET analysis provide insightful structural and functional attributes. The review highlights MXenes' diverse antimicrobial mechanisms, spanning membrane disruption and oxidative stress induction, demonstrating efficacy against bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Despite translational hurdles, MXene-based nanostructures offer broad-spectrum antimicrobial potential, with applications in drug delivery and diagnostics, presenting a promising path for advancing infection control in global healthcare.

Potential Biosafety of Mxenes: Stability, Biodegradability, Toxicity and Biocompatibility

MXenes are two-dimensional nanomaterials with unique properties that are widely used in various fields of research, mostly in the field of energy. Fewer publications are devoted to MXene application in biomedicine and the question is: are MXenes safe for use in biological systems? The sharp edges of MXenes provide the structure of "nanoknives" which cause damage in direct physical contact with cells. This is effectively used for antibacterial research. However, on the other hand, most studies in cultured cells and rodents report that they do not cause obvious signs of cytotoxicity and are fully biocompatible. The aim of our review was to consider whether MXenes can really be considered non-toxic and biocompatible. Often the last two concepts are confused. We first reviewed aspects such as the stability and biodegradation of MXenes, and then analyzed the mechanisms of toxicity and their consequences for bacteria, cultured cells, and rodents, with subsequent conclusions regarding their biocompatibility.

Green Synthesis and Biosafety Assessment of MXene

The rise of MXene-based materials with fascinating physical and chemical properties has attracted wide attention in the field of biomedicine, because it can be exploited to regulate a variety of biological processes. The biomedical applications of MXene are still in its infancy, nevertheless, the comprehensive evaluation of MXene's biosafety is desperately needed. In this review, the composition and the synthetic methods of MXene materials are first introduced from the view of biosafety. The evaluation of the interaction between MXene and cells, as well as the safety of different forms of MXene applied in vivo are then discussed. This review provides a basic understanding of MXene biosafety and may bring new inspirations to the future applications of MXene-based materials in biomedicine.

MXene-NH2/chitosan hemostatic sponges for rapid wound healing

Effective control of wound bleeding and sustained promotion of wound healing remain a major challenge for hemostatic materials. In this study, the hemostatic sponge with controllable antibacterial and adjustable continuous promotion of wound healing (CMNCu) was prepared by chitosan, aminated MXene and copper ion. Interestingly, the internal topological point-line-surface interaction endowed the CMN-Cu sponge longitudinal staggered tubular porous microstructure, combined with the lipophilic properties obtained by modified MXene, which greatly improved its flexibility, wet elasticity and blood enrichment capacity. In addition, the sponge achieved controlled release of active ingredients, which made it present highly effective antibacterial activity and long-lasting ability to promote wound healing. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that CMN-Cu sponge presented high-efficient hemostatic performance. Last but not least, a series of cell experiments showed that the CMN-Cu sponge had excellent safety as a hemostatic material.

Electrospun membranes chelated by metal magnesium ions enhance pro-angiogenic activity and promote diabetic wound healing

Diabetic wounds, resulting from skin atrophy due to localized ischemia and hypoxia in diabetic patients, lead to chronic pathological inflammation and delayed healing. Using electrospinning technology, we developed magnesium ion-chelated nanofiber membranes to explore their efficacy in antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and angiogenic applications for wound healing. These membranes are flexible and elastic, resembling native skin tissue, and possess good hydrophilicity for comfortable wound bed contact. The mechanical properties of nanofiber membranes are enhanced by the chelation of magnesium ions (Mg2+), which also facilitates a long-term slow release of Mg2+. The cytocompatibility of the nanofibrous membranes is influenced by their Mg2+ content: lower levels encourage the proliferation of fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and macrophages, while higher levels are inhibitory. In a diabetic rat model, magnesium ion-chelated nanofibrous membranes effectively reduced early wound inflammation and notably accelerated wound healing. This study highlights the potential of magnesium ion-chelated nanofiber membranes in treating diabetic wounds.

TiO2-Ti3C2 Nanocomposites Utilize Their Photothermal Activity for Targeted Treatment of Colorectal Cancer

Purpose

The search for effective and low-risk treatment methods for colorectal cancer (CRC) is a pressing concern, given the inherent risks and adverse reactions associated with traditional therapies. Photothermal therapy (PTT) has emerged as a promising approach for cancer treatment, offering advantages such as non-radiation, non-invasiveness, and targeted treatment. Consequently, the development of nanoparticles with high stability, biocompatibility, and photothermal effects has become a significant research focus within the field of PTT.

Methods

In this study, TiO2-Ti3C2 nanocomposites were synthesized and characterized, and their photothermal conversion efficiency in the near-infrared region II (NIR-II) was determined. Then studied the in vivo and in vitro photothermal activity and anti-tumor effect of TiO2-Ti3C2 in human colorectal cancer cell lines and nude mice subcutaneous tumor model.

Results

The results showed that TiO2-Ti3C2 nanocomposites have strong absorption ability in the NIR-II, and have high photothermal conversion efficiency under 1064 nm (0.5 W/cm2, 6 min) laser stimulation. In addition, in vitro experiments showed that TiO2-Ti3C2 nanocomposites significantly inhibited the invasion, migration, and proliferation of colorectal cancer cells, and induced cell apoptosis; in vivo, experiments showed that TiO2-Ti3C2 nanocomposites-mediated PTT had good biocompatibility and efficient targeted inhibition of tumor growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, TiO2-Ti3C2 nanocomposites can be used as NIR-II absorption materials in PTT to suppress the invasion, migration, and proliferation of colorectal cancer cells, induce colorectal cancer cell apoptosis, and thus inhibit the development of CRC. Therefore, TiO2-Ti3C2 nanocomposites can be used as potential anti-tumor drugs for photothermal ablation of colorectal cancer cells.

Chicoric acid inserted in protein Z cavity exhibits higher stability and better wound healing effect under oxidative stress

Oxidative stress is one of the limiting factors that inhibit wound healing. Phytochemicals especially chicoric acid have the potential to act as an antioxidant and scavenge reactive oxygen species, thereby promoting wound healing. However, most of the phytochemicals were easy to be degraded during storage or using due to the oxidative status in wound site. Herein, we introduce a high stable protein Z that can encapsulate chicoric acid during foaming. TEM results showed that the size of protein Z-chicoric acid is in the range of nanoscale (named PZ-CA nanocomposite), and protein Z encapsulation can significantly improve the stability of chicoric acid under oxidative stress. Moreover, PZ-CA nanocomposite exhibited favorable antioxidant properties, biocompatibility, and the ability to promote cell migration in vitro. The role of PZ-CA nanocomposite in skin regeneration was explored by a mice model. Results in vivo suggest that the PZ-CA nanocomposite promotes wound healing with a faster rate as compared with a commercial spray solution, mostly through attenuating the oxidative stress, promoting cell proliferation and collagen deposition. This work not only provides a delivery vector for bioactive molecules, but also develops a kind of nanocomposite with the property of promoting wound healing.

MXene: A wonderful nanomaterial in antibacterial

Increasing bacterial infections and growing resistance to available drugs pose a serious threat to human health and the environment. Although antibiotics are crucial in fighting bacterial infections, their excessive use not only weakens our immune system but also contributes to bacterial resistance. These negative effects have caused doctors to be troubled by the clinical application of antibiotics. Facing this challenge, it is urgent to explore a new antibacterial strategy. MXene has been extensively reported in tumor therapy and biosensors due to its wonderful performance. Due to its large specific surface area, remarkable chemical stability, hydrophilicity, wide interlayer spacing, and excellent adsorption and reduction ability, it has shown wonderful potential for biopharmaceutical applications. However, there are few antimicrobial evaluations on MXene. The current antimicrobial mechanisms of MXene mainly include physical damage, induced oxidative stress, and photothermal and photodynamic therapy. In this paper, we reviewed MXene-based antimicrobial composites and discussed the application of MXene in bacterial infections to guide further research in the antimicrobial field.

Electrospun Antimicrobial Drug Delivery Systems and Hydrogels Used for Wound Dressings

Wounds and chronic wounds can be caused by bacterial infections and lead to discomfort in patients. To solve this problem, scientists are working to create modern wound dressings with antibacterial additives, mainly because traditional materials cannot meet the general requirements for complex wounds and cannot promote wound healing. This demand is met by material engineering, through which we can create electrospun wound dressings. Electrospun wound dressings, as well as those based on hydrogels with incorporated antibacterial compounds, can meet these requirements. This manuscript reviews recent materials used as wound dressings, discussing their formation, application, and functionalization. The focus is on presenting dressings based on electrospun materials and hydrogels. In contrast, recent advancements in wound care have highlighted the potential of thermoresponsive hydrogels as dynamic and antibacterial wound dressings. These hydrogels contain adaptable polymers that offer targeted drug delivery and show promise in managing various wound types while addressing bacterial infections. In this way, the article is intended to serve as a compendium of knowledge for researchers, medical practitioners, and biomaterials engineers, providing up-to-date information on the state of the art, possibilities of innovative solutions, and potential challenges in the area of materials used in dressings.

MXene/zinc ion embedded agar/sodium alginate hydrogel for rapid and efficient sterilization with photothermal and chemical synergetic therapy

Bacterial infections can significantly impair wound healing. Therefore, it is essential to develop wound dressings with high antimicrobial activity. Hydrogels are often used as wound dressings due to their excellent physicochemical properties. Herein, by cross linking sodium alginate (SA), agar (AG) with Ti3C2Tx MXene and Zinc ions (Zn2+), a biosafe composite hydrogel (MSG-Zn2+) was developed for fast and efficient sterilization treatment. The excellent photothermal properties of Ti3C2Tx MXene and the chemical antimicrobial activity of Zn2+ enable synergistic photothermal therapy (PTT)/chemical therapy in NIR biowindow with reduced power density and improved antimicrobial efficiency. More importantly, the incorporation of Zn2+ can enhance the effective contact between the hydrogel and bacteria, benefiting both photothermal and chemical antibacteria. In vitro antibacterial experiments showed that MSG-Zn2+ has a broad-spectrum antibacterial effect against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli). Cellular experiments showed that the hydrogel had excellent biocompatibility and the released Zn2+ stimulated cell migration. In addition, the prepared MSG-Zn2+ hydrogel has other advantages such as hydrophilic, high swelling, simple and low cost preparation, which meets the requirements of an economical wound dressing. This proposed work shows that this composite hydrogel MSG-Zn2+ has great potential for practical antimicrobial wound dressing applications.

MXene and Xene: promising frontier beyond graphene in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine

The emergence of 2D nanomaterials (2D NMs), which was initiated by the isolation of graphene (G) in 2004, revolutionized various biomedical applications, including bioimaging and -sensing, drug delivery, and tissue engineering, owing to their unique physicochemical and biological properties. Building on the success of G, a novel class of monoelemental 2D NMs, known as Xenes, has recently emerged, offering distinct advantages in the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In this review, we focus on the comparison of G and Xene materials for use in fabricating tissue engineering scaffolds. After a brief introduction to the basic physicochemical properties of these materials, recent representative studies are classified in terms of the engineered tissue, i.e., bone, cartilage, neural, muscle, and skin tissues. We analyze several methods of improving the clinical potential of Xene-laden scaffolds using state-of-the-art fabrication technologies and innovative biomaterials. Despite the considerable advantages of Xene materials, critical concerns, such as biocompatibility, biodistribution and regulatory challenges, should be considered. This review and collaborative efforts should advance the field of Xene-based tissue engineering and enable innovative, effective solutions for use in future tissue regeneration.

Recent Progress in Stimuli-Responsive Antimicrobial Electrospun Nanofibers

Electrospun nanofibrous membranes have garnered significant attention in antimicrobial applications, owing to their intricate three-dimensional network that confers an interconnected porous structure, high specific surface area, and tunable physicochemical properties, as well as their notable capacity for loading and sustained release of antimicrobial agents. Tailoring polymer or hybrid-based nanofibrous membranes with stimuli-responsive characteristics further enhances their versatility, enabling them to exhibit broad-spectrum or specific activity against diverse microorganisms. In this review, we elucidate the pivotal advancements achieved in the realm of stimuli-responsive antimicrobial electrospun nanofibers operating by light, temperature, pH, humidity, and electric field, among others. We provide a concise introduction to the strategies employed to design smart electrospun nanofibers with antimicrobial properties. The core section of our review spotlights recent progress in electrospun nanofiber-based systems triggered by single- and multi-stimuli. Within each stimulus category, we explore recent examples of nanofibers based on different polymers and antimicrobial agents. Finally, we delve into the constraints and future directions of stimuli-responsive nanofibrous materials, paving the way for their wider application spectrum and catalyzing progress toward industrial utilization.

Multifunctional MXene-Based Bioactive Materials for Integrated Regeneration Therapy

The reconstruction engineering of tissue defects accompanied by major diseases including cancer, infection, and inflammation is one of the important challenges in clinical medicine. The development of innovative tissue engineering strategies such as multifunctional bioactive materials presents a great potential to overcome the challenge of disease-impaired tissue regeneration. As the major representative of two-dimensional nanomaterials, MXenes have shown multifunctional physicochemical properties and have been diffusely studied as multimodal nanoplatforms in the field of biomedicine. This review summarized the recent advances in the multifunctional properties of MXenes and integrated regeneration-therapy applications of MXene-based biomaterials, including tissue regeneration-tumor therapy, tissue regeneration-infection therapy, and tissue regeneration-inflammation therapy. MXenes have been recognized as good candidates for promoting tissue regeneration and treating diseases through photothermal therapy, regulating cell behavior, and drug and gene delivery. The current challenges and future perspectives of MXene-based biomaterials in integrated regeneration-therapy are also discussed well in this review. In summary, MXene-based biomaterials have shown promising potential for integrated tissue regeneration and disease treatment due to their favorable physicochemical properties and bioactive functions. However, there are still many obstacles and challenges that must be addressed for the regeneration-therapy applications of MXene-based biomaterials, including understanding the bioactive mechanism, ensuring long-term biosafety, and improving their targeting therapy capacity.

Graphene- and MXene-based materials for neuroscience: diagnostic and therapeutic applications

MXenes and graphene are two-dimensional materials that have gained increasing attention in neuroscience, particularly in sensing, theranostics, and biomedical engineering. Various composites of graphene and MXenes with fascinating thermal, optical, magnetic, mechanical, and electrical properties have been introduced to develop advanced nanosystems for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, as exemplified in the case of biosensors for neurotransmitter detection. These biosensors display high sensitivity, selectivity, and stability, making them promising tools for neuroscience research. MXenes have been employed to create high-resolution neural interfaces for neuroelectronic devices, develop neuro-receptor-mediated synapse devices, and stimulate the electrophysiological maturation of neural circuits. On the other hand, graphene/derivatives exhibit therapeutic applicability in neuroscience, as exemplified in the case of graphene oxide for targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to the brain. While MXenes and graphene have potential benefits in neuroscience, there are also challenges/limitations associated with their use, such as toxicity, environmental impacts, and limited understanding of their properties. In addition, large-scale production and commercialization as well as optimization of reaction/synthesis conditions and clinical translation studies are very important aspects. Thus, it is important to consider the use of these materials in neuroscience research and conduct further research to obtain an in-depth understanding of their properties and potential applications. By addressing issues related to biocompatibility, long-term stability, targeted delivery, electrical interfaces, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, MXenes and graphene have the potential to greatly advance the field of neuroscience and pave the way for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for neurological disorders. Herein, recent advances in therapeutic and diagnostic applications of graphene- and MXene-based materials in neuroscience are discussed, focusing on important challenges and future prospects.

Electrospun Nanofiber Membranes with Various Structures for Wound Dressing

Electrospun nanofiber membranes (NFMs) have high porosity and a large specific surface area, which provide a suitable environment for the complex and dynamic wound healing process and a large number of sites for carrying wound healing factors. Further, the design of the nanofiber structure can imitate the structure of the human dermis, similar to the natural extracellular matrix, which better promotes the hemostasis, anti-inflammatory and healing of wounds. Therefore, it has been widely studied in the field of wound dressing. This review article overviews the development of electrospinning technology and the application of electrospun nanofibers in wound dressings. It begins with an introduction to the history, working principles, and transformation of electrospinning, with a focus on the selection of electrospun nanofiber materials, incorporation of functional therapeutic factors, and structural design of nanofibers and nanofiber membranes. Moreover, the wide application of electrospun NFMs containing therapeutic factors in wound healing is classified based on their special functions, such as hemostasis, antibacterial and cell proliferation promotion. This article also highlights the structural design of electrospun nanofibers in wound dressing, including porous structures, bead structures, core-shell structures, ordered structures, and multilayer nanofiber membrane structures. Finally, their advantages and limitations are discussed, and the challenges faced in their application for wound dressings are analyzed to promote further research in this field.

Applications of drug delivery systems, organic, and inorganic nanomaterials in wound healing

The skin is known to be the largest organ in the human body, while also being exposed to environmental elements. This indicates that skin is highly susceptible to physical infliction, as well as damage resulting from medical conditions such as obesity and diabetes. The wound management costs in hospitals and clinics are expected to rise globally over the coming years, which provides pressure for more wound healing aids readily available in the market. Recently, nanomaterials have been gaining traction for their potential applications in various fields, including wound healing. Here, we discuss various inorganic nanoparticles such as silver, titanium dioxide, copper oxide, cerium oxide, MXenes, PLGA, PEG, and silica nanoparticles with their respective roles in improving wound healing progression. In addition, organic nanomaterials for wound healing such as collagen, chitosan, curcumin, dendrimers, graphene and its derivative graphene oxide were also further discussed. Various forms of nanoparticle drug delivery systems like nanohydrogels, nanoliposomes, nanofilms, and nanoemulsions were discussed in their function to deliver therapeutic agents to wound sites in a controlled manner.

MXene-Embedded Electrospun Polymeric Nanofibers for Biomedical Applications: Recent Advances

Recently MXenes has gained immense attention as a new and exciting class of two-dimensional material. Due to their unique layered microstructure, the presence of various functional groups at the surface, earth abundance, and attractive electrical, optical, and thermal properties, MXenes are considered promising candidates for various applications such as energy, environmental, and biomedical. The ease of dispersibility and metallic conductivity of MXene render them promising candidates for use as fillers in polymer nanocomposites. MXene-polymer nanocomposites simultaneously benefit from the attractive properties of MXenes and the flexibility and facile processability of polymers. However, the potentiality of MXene to modify the electrospun nanofibers has been less studied. Understanding the interactions between polymeric nanofibers and MXenes is important to widen their role in biomedical applications. This review explores diverse methods of MXene synthesis, discusses our current knowledge of the various biological characteristics of MXene, and the synthesis of MXene incorporated polymeric nanofibers and their utilization in biomedical applications. The information discussed in this review serves to guide the future development and application of MXene-polymer nanofibers in biomedical fields.

Ti3C2 (MXene) nanosheets disrupt spermatogenesis in male mice mediated by the ATM/p53 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Two-dimensional ultrathin Ti₃C₂ nanosheets are increasingly being used in biomedical applications owing to their special physicochemical properties. But, the biological effects of its exposure on the reproductive system is still unclear. This study evaluated the reproductive toxicity of Ti₃C₂ nanosheets in the testes.

RESULTS

Ti₃C₂ nanosheets at doses of 2.5 mg/kg bw and 5 mg/kg bw in mice caused defects in spermatogenic function, and we also clarified an underlying molecular mechanism of it in vivo and in vitro model. Ti₃C₂ nanosheets induced an increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in testicular and GC-1 cells, which in turn led to the imbalance in oxidative and antioxidant systems (also known as oxidative stress). Additionally, oxidative stress often induces cellular DNA strand damages via the oxidative DNA damages, which triggered cell cycle arrest in the G1/G0 phase, leading to cell proliferation inhibition and irreversible apoptosis. ATM/p53 signaling manifest key role in DNA damage repair (DDR), and we demonstrate that ATM/p53 signaling was activated, and mediated the toxic damage process caused by Ti₃C₂ nanosheet exposure.

CONCLUSION

Ti₃C₂ nanosheet-induced disruption of proliferation and apoptosis of spermatogonia perturbed normal spermatogenic function that was mediated by ATM/p53 signaling pathway. Our findings shed more light on the mechanisms of male reproductive toxicity induced by Ti₃C₂ nanosheets.

Advances in the application of Mxene nanoparticles in wound healing

Skin is the largest organ of the human body. It plays a vital role as the body's first barrier: stopping chemical, radiological damage and microbial invasion. The importance of skin to the human body can never be overstated. Delayed wound healing after a skin injury has become a huge challenge in healthcare. In some situations, this can have very serious and even life-threatening effects on people's health. Various wound dressings have been developed to promote quicker wound healing, including hydrogels, gelatin sponges, films, and bandages, all work to prevent the invasion of microbial pathogens. Some of them are also packed with bioactive agents, such as antibiotics, nanoparticles, and growth factors, that help to improve the performance of the dressing it is added to. Recently, bioactive nanoparticles as the bioactive agent have become widely used in wound dressings. Among these, functional inorganic nanoparticles are favored due to their ability to effectively improve the tissue-repairing properties of biomaterials. MXene nanoparticles have attracted the interest of scholars due to their unique properties of electrical conductivity, hydrophilicity, antibacterial properties, and biocompatibility. The potential for its application is very promising as an effective functional component of wound dressings. In this paper, we will review MXene nanoparticles in skin injury repair, particularly its synthesis method, functional properties, biocompatibility, and application.

Combination of a STING Agonist and Photothermal Therapy Using Chitosan Hydrogels for Cancer Immunotherapy

Cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) are a promising class of immune agonists that trigger the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) to activate both innate and acquired immunity. However, the efficacy of CDNs is limited by drug delivery barriers. Therefore, we developed a combined immunotherapy strategy based on injectable reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive hydrogels, which sustainably release 5,6-dimethylxanthenone-4-acetic acid (DMXAA) as known as a STING agonist and indocyanine green (ICG) by utilizing a high level of ROS in the tumor microenvironment (TME). The STING agonist combined with photothermal therapy (PTT) can improve the biological efficacy of DMXAA, transform the immunosuppressive TME into an immunogenic and tumoricidal microenvironment, and completely kill tumor cells. In addition, this bioreactive gel can effectively leverage local ROS to facilitate the release of immunotherapy drugs, thereby enhancing the efficacy of combination therapy, improving the TME, inhibiting tumor growth, inducing memory immunity, and protecting against tumor rechallenge.

Nanomaterials as multimodal photothermal agents (PTAs) against 'Superbugs'

Superbugs, also known as multidrug-resistant bacteria, have become a lethal and persistent threat due to their unresponsiveness toward conventional antibiotics. The main reason for this is that superbugs can rapidly mutate and restrict any foreign drug/molecule in their vicinity. Herein, nanomaterial-mediated therapies have set their path and shown burgeoning efficiency toward the ablation of superbugs. Notably, treatment modalities like photothermal therapy (PTT) have shown prominence in killing multidrug-resistant bacteria with their ability to generate local heat shock-mediated hyperthermia in such species. However, photothermal treatment has some serious limitations, such as high cost, complexity, and even toxicity to some extent. Hence, it is important to resolve such shortcomings of PTTs as they provide substantial tissue penetration. This is why multimodal PTTs have emerged and taken over this domain of research for the past few years. In this work, we have summarized and critically reviewed such exceptional works of recent times and provided a perspective to enhance their efficiencies. Profoundly, we discuss the design rationales of some novel photothermal agents (PTAs) and shed light on their mechanisms. Finally, challenges for PTT-derived multimodal therapy are presented, and capable synergistic bactericidal prospects are anticipated.

Applications of MXene and its modified materials in skin wound repair

The rapid healing and repair of skin wounds has been receiving much clinical attention. Covering the wound with wound dressing to promote wound healing is currently the main treatment for skin wound repair. However, the performance of wound dressing prepared by a single material is limited and cannot meet the requirements of complex conditions for wound healing. MXene is a new two-dimensional material with electrical conductivity, antibacterial and photothermal properties and other physical and biological properties, which has a wide range of applications in the field of biomedicine. Based on the pathophysiological process of wound healing and the properties of ideal wound dressing, this review will introduce the preparation and modification methods of MXene, systematically summarize and review the application status and mechanism of MXene in skin wound healing, and provide guidance for subsequent researchers to further apply MXene in the design of skin wound dressing.

Recent advances in 2D material-based phototherapy

Phototherapy, which generally refers to photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT), has received significant attention over the past few years since it is non-invasive, has effective selectivity, and has few side effects. As a result, it has become a promising alternative to traditional clinical treatments. At present, two-dimensional materials (2D materials) have proven to be at the forefront of the development of advanced nanomaterials due to their ultrathin structures and fascinating optical properties. As a result, much work has been put into developing phototherapy platforms based on 2D materials. This review summarizes the current developments in 2D materials beyond graphene for phototherapy, focusing on the novel approaches of PTT and PDT. New methods are being developed to go above and beyond conventional treatment to fully use the potential of 2D materials. Additionally, the efficacy of cutting-edge phototherapy is assessed, and the existing difficulties and future prospects of 2D materials for phototherapy are covered.