Advancing flexible quantum dot light-emitting diode technology for antimicrobial photodynamic therapy

Abstract

Antibiotic administration is the mainstay for treating bacterial infections, but multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria jeopardize its effectiveness. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) offers a promising strategy with less risk of inducing resistance, yet the lack of a suitable wearable light source limits its widespread adoption. Here, we design flexible quantum dot light-emitting diodes (F-QLEDs) for effective aPDT treatment of MDR bacteria. By simultaneous optical, thermal, and reliability management, we achieved F-QLEDs with emission spectrum matching the photosensitizer absorption, physiologically safe surface temperature (<41 °C), enhanced operating lifetime (7.5X), and ambient shelf life > 1 month. Subsequently, aPDT testing demonstrated a ~ 9-log reduction of Staphylococcus aureus and ~2-3 log reduction of Pseudomonas aeruginosa compared to controls. Additionally, testing with different photosensitizers confirmed F-QLED versatility for targeted aPDT. These results showcase the potent antimicrobial efficacy of F-QLEDs and their potential as wearable optical platforms for point-of-care treatment of MDR infections and broader photomedical applications.