Adhesive micro-liquid for efficient removal of bacterial biofilm infection

Bacteria are common infectious pathogens that can cause invasive and potentially life-threatening infections. Ionic liquids have emerged as a novel class of alternatives to antibiotics, however their inherent hydrophobicity and immiscible in water exhibits poor adhesion to bacteria and diminishes its utilization and bioavailability for infection control. Herein, an adhesive metal phenolic encapsulated ionic liquid choline and geranate (CAGE@MPN) microcapsules is designed to address the aforementioned challenges and remove bacterial biofilm infections. The CAGE@MPN microcapsules are prepared through self-assembly of quercetin and ferrous ions on the interface of CAGE and water <i>via</i> metal-phenolic coordination. The MPN interface can stabilize the micro liquid and effectively adhere to bacterial surfaces. The microcapsules can disrupt bacterial cell walls to facilitate the release of cellular contents and destruct the biofilm, thereby exerting a pronounced bactericidal effect. The <i>in vivo</i> bactericidal effect of CAGE@MPN microcapsules is demonstrated in a murine model of <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> (<i>S. aureus</i>) skin infection. The proposed adhesive micro-liquid system offers a promising strategy for noninvasive and efficient removal of bacterial biofilm infection.