Biocatalytic Au10 clusters for sepsis management via modulation of systemic inflammation

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome, and severe cases often present with inadequate organ perfusion and multiple organ failure. The interplay of inflammation and infection can lead to vascular dilation and disruptions in microcirculation, consequently causing damage and hypoxia to multiple organs. Thus, suppressing inflammation and alleviating multi-organ damage, especially lung injury, are crucial for the treatment of sepsis. We employ atomically precise Au10 clusters protected by 6-Aza-2-thiothymine (ATT) ligand, which possess remarkable antioxidant capabilities, 5.7 times higher than natural antioxidant Trolox. Au10 clusters also exhibit excellent catalase-like (CAT-like) activity, effectively eliminating excessive hydrogen peroxide and generating oxygen. Therefore, in cases of sepsis, Au10 clusters can effectively clear inflammatory factors, ensuring the proper functioning of vital organs in the body. This functionality underscores the potential of the Au10 clusters as an intervention in the treatment of sepsis, providing a unique combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties for multiple anoxic organs protection.