Sonocatalytic multifunctional hydrogel in-situ remodels the infectious microenvironment for eradicating refractory osteomyelitis.

Summary: Bone infections are incredibly hard to treat because bacteria build slimy shields called biofilms. They also thrive in areas with low oxygen and destroy healthy bone tissue. To fight this, scientists created a special gel that can be injected directly into the infected bone. When activated by ultrasound waves from outside the body, this gel releases oxygen and creates powerful molecules that destroy the bacteria's shield. In tests on rats with severe bone infections, the gel successfully killed the stubborn bacteria, stopped the swelling, and protected the bone from further damage. It is a highly promising new way to cure stubborn bone infections without major surgery!