Flexible Copper-Doped Silica Fibers Promote Infected Conjunctival Tissue Repair Through Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Effects

The conjunctiva is crucial in safeguarding the eye from harm or infection, thereby ensuring the preservation of the vision. The repair of infected conjunctival damage is necessary. The objective of this study is to develop copper-doped flexible silica nanofibers (SiO 2 @Cu NFs) with multifunctional antibacterial and anti-inflammatory characteristics. The continuous release of copper ions from electrospun membranes is shown to be effective to promote antibacterial and bioactive functions. Nanofiber membranes also exhibit biocompatibility and promote cell growth, angiogenesis, and inflammation modulation. In vivo evaluations further reveal the therapeutic efficacy of SiO 2 @Cu NFs to promote the structural and the functional recoveries of the conjunctiva. Taken together, SiO 2 @Cu NFs may hold significant promise for the fabrication of alternative ocular bandage to suppress bacterial infection and promote repair of ocular tissues and may potential be also used for related disciplines. Graphical Abstract Schematic diagram showing the fabrication of SiO 2 @Cu NFs for the regeneration of infected conjunctiva.