Fighting superbugs with nets and light switches
Researchers at ETH Zurich and Shanghai University developed a reversible, egg-white (lysozyme) hydrogel that, when activated by near-infrared light, releases antibacterial lysozyme and magnesium ions to both kill MRSA and shift immune cells toward tissue-regenerative phenotypes; preclinical tests in mice and pigs showed a 95% reduction in MRSA and markedly accelerated wound closure, and the team is seeking industry partners to progress to clinical trials.
Why it mattersETH Zurich's NIR-activated lysozyme hydrogel cut MRSA by 95%, prompting clinical-trial and partnership prioritization.