Treating wounds and antibiotic resistance is a significant challenge in global healthcare, particularly when bacterial infections cause chronic wounds. Metal oxide-based nanomaterials offer a promising solution for combating infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria. Cerium oxide, mimicking catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymes, mitigates ROS-induced toxicity in normal cells. Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) exhibit potent antimicrobial properties and have been employed in wound treatment. Polydopamine (PDA), a synthetic polymer with robust adhesion properties and photothermal capabilities, stands as a promising candidate for antibacterial interventions. This study aimed to fabricate an antibacterial agent through the synergistic action of Ag NPs and PDA in the form of CeO2@Ag.PDA nanocomposites synthesis. Antibacterial efficacy was assessed through MIC, MBC, and anti-biofilm assays on Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and wound-isolated bacteria, under UVA and NIR exposure. MIC values ranged from 5 to 300 μg mL−1 across different bacterial species, with enhanced performance observed under irradiation conditions. Additionally, more than 90 % biofilm inhibition was achieved. Furthermore, MTT assay conducted on the HEK-293 cell line demonstrated that the nanocomposite was non-toxic up to a concentration of 40 μg mL−1. Hence, the developed nanocomposite showcases significant potential and effectiveness as a viable and promising approach for the treatment of infectious and resistant wound conditions.

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