A theranostic wearable laser-induced graphene-hydrogel dressing for synergistic treatment and real-time monitoring of dermatophytosis.
basic_science · Level V
Where this comes from
- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 42569484.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2026.07.018 and PMC identifier 13450443.
- Licence recorded as CC BY-NC-ND.
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Abstract
The complexity, high recurrence rate, and need for long-term monitoring in dermatophytosis treatment underscore the demand for high-performance antifungal strategies. Here, we present a theranostic wearable hydrogel dressing (LIG<sup>+</sup>ITZ@PCS hydrogel) that integrates laser-induced graphene (LIG) with co-encapsulated itraconazole (ITZ) for synergistic therapy and real-time monitoring. This platform features a cationic LIG<sup>+</sup> surface (+43.1 mV) for targeted fungal capture. Sunlight exposure induces a mild photothermal effect (∼45°C), which enables the controlled release of ITZ. The combined action of photothermal therapy (PTT) and ITZ inflicts multimodal injury on <i>Trichophyton rubrum</i> (<i>T. rubrum</i>), inducing ferroptosis along with other cellular damage mechanisms. This mechanism achieves <i>T. rubrum</i> eradication and biofilm disruption without recurrence in murine models. The conductive LIG network facilitates real-time, smartphone-based tracking of fungal load through voltage signals. Furthermore, LIG<sup>+</sup>ITZ@PCS hydrogel exert a powerful modulates immune microenvironment effect. This intelligent system, which integrates low-temperature phototherapy, immunotherapy, and real-time sensing, offers a comprehensive platform for dermatophytosis management.