An NIR-propelled janus nanomotor with enhanced ROS-scavenging, immunomodulating and biofilm-eradicating capacity for periodontitis treatment

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease caused by bacterial biofilms, which leads to the destruction of periodontal tissue. Current treatments, such as mechanical cleaning and antibiotics, struggle to effectively address the persistent biofilms, inflammation, and tissue damage. A new approach involves developing a Janus nanomotor (J-CeM@Au) by coating cerium dioxide-doped mesoporous silica (CeM) with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). This nanomotor exhibits thermophoretic motion when exposed to near-infrared (NIR) laser light due to the temperature gradient produced by the photothermal effects of asymmetrically distributed AuNPs. The NIR laser provides the energy for propulsion and activates the nanomotor's antibacterial properties, allowing it to penetrate biofilms and kill bacteria. Additionally, the nanomotor's ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) can modulate the immune response and create a regenerative environment, promoting the healing of periodontal tissue. Overall, this multifunctional nanomotor offers a promising new approach for treating periodontitis by simultaneously addressing biofilm management and immune modulation with autonomous movement. • A multifunctional Janus nanomotor (J-CeM@Au) propelled by NIR laser. • ROS scavenging and immunomodulation in periodontal milieu. • Actively penetrating into the biofilms and killing bacteria by photothermal effects. • Promoting biofilm eradicating, inflammation subsiding and periodontal tissue regression in vivo.