Dynamically Actuated Reconfigurable Topographical Surface Enables Active Control of Implant‐Associated Infections

ABSTRACT

Implant‐associated infections are driven by bacterial biofilm formation and remain difficult to eradicate using conventional antibiotic‐based strategies. Here, we present a dynamically actuated reconfigurable topographical surface (DARTS) that integrates intrinsically bactericidal nanoscale surface topography with programmable mechanical actuation to achieve durable infection control. Using a scalable bottom‐up nanofabrication strategy, we generate tunable wrinkled MXene surfaces that exhibit contact‐mediated, topography‐driven bactericidal activity against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria without detectable antibacterial effects from diffusible agents. Integration with a soft robotic actuator enables reversible modulation of surface geometry, which synergistically enhances bacterial removal and killing, resulting in near‐complete disruption of mature biofilms. Dynamic actuation further sensitizes released bacteria to antibiotic treatment. In a mouse subcutaneous implant infection model, DARTS with actuation achieves sustained suppression of bacterial burden and markedly improves host tissue outcomes. Remote, noninvasive actuation using near‐infrared laser stimulation further highlights the translational potential of this platform for implantable antibacterial applications.