Synergistic Photothermal and Photodynamic Therapy against Bacterial Infections Using Carbon Quantum Dots Modified Molybdenum Disulfide

Oral and maxillofacial infections are primarily caused by pyogenic bacterial infections, with common pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In this study, we developed a nonantibiotic antibacterial material, carbon quantum dots (CQDs) modified molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), through a well-designed fabrication process. CQDs were used as highly efficient cocatalysts to enhance the near-infrared absorption capacity of the composite. Under near-infrared light (NIR) irradiation (1.5 W/cm2 for 5 min), the 18.75% CQDs/MoS2 composite, with CQDs concentration reaching 18.75%, exhibited complete antibacterial activity, demonstrating 100% efficacy against both S. aureus and E. coli. In addition, under NIR irradiation, the obtained CQDs/MoS2 displayed remarkable wound healing performance, as well as antioxidative and anti-inflammatory capabilities. The improved antibacterial and wound healing performance were attributed to the synergistic effects of hyperthermia-mediated photothermal therapy (PTT) and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT). This study offers a promising approach for managing maxillofacial wound infections.