Transforming chronic wound care with targeted MXene-based antibacterial and regenerative technologies

Objective

The MX-WOUND project aims to revolutionize chronic wound care by developing a first-of-its-kind multimodal antibacterial and regenerative platform powered by MXene nanotechnology. Conventional treatments are increasingly ineffective due to multidrug-resistant infections and insufficient regenerative support. MX-WOUND addresses these challenges by uniting targeted antibacterial therapy, photothermal modulation, and regenerative stimulation into a single, clinically translatable solution. MXenes, a cutting-edge class of 2D transition metal carbides and nitrides, will be polydopamine-coated and conjugated with MRSA-specific antibodies to ensure highly selective bacterial targeting. Combined with near-infrared light-triggered photothermal therapy, this approach enables rapid pathogen eradication with minimal damage to surrounding tissues. In parallel, electrospun and hybrid-spun nanofibrous scaffolds will be engineered to deliver mesenchymal stem cell-derived secretome, promoting angiogenesis, immune modulation, and tissue repair to accelerate wound closure. MX-WOUND unites leading academic, clinical, and industrial partners from Europe, Ukraine, and the USA in a highly interdisciplinary network. The project follows a rigorous translational pipeline—MXene synthesis and functionalization, scaffold fabrication, in vitro validation, and preclinical in vivo testing—ensuring robustness, scalability, and clinical relevance. Beyond scientific innovation, MX-WOUND will train a new generation of researchers through cross-sectoral secondments, industry placements, and mentoring. By integrating nanotechnology, precision photothermal therapy, and regenerative medicine, MX-WOUND will deliver a transformative, antibiotic-free therapy for chronic wounds, improve patient outcomes, and help combat the global threat of antimicrobial resistance.