Effects of aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy combined with antibiotics on Mycobacterium abscessus skin infections

The need for innovative, antibiotic-independent antibacterial strategies is urgent. Our study offers a comprehensive approach to infected wound management. We synthesized ICG@Fe-Qu via a one-step process and characterized them. Subsequent assessments focused on the photodynamic and photothermal properties of nanoparticles, which are pivotal for their therapeutic potential. The in vitro antibacterial efficacy of ICG@Fe-Qu was rigorously tested against common bacterial pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Furthermore, the in vivo antibacterial effectiveness of the nanoparticles was evaluated using a mouse model featuring wounds. ICG@Fe-Qu+NIR demonstrated a 90% inhibition rate against S. aureus and E. coli, with significant wound area reduction and accelerated healing in vitro and in vivo. ICG@Fe-Qu presents proven efficacy in vitro and in vivo, as a leading candidate for clinical translation in wound care.