Scheme 1.

Schematic illustration of TPI-CysHHC10 comprising AMPs and AIE photosensitizer as a photoactivatable, broad-spectrum, antibacterial agent for combating biofilms. TPI-CysHHC10 was initially attached to the bacterial surface and inserted into the bacterial membrane structure by means of the positivity of molecules and the affinity of antimicrobial peptides to the bacterial membrane. Subsequently, under light irradiation, the photodynamic antibacterial activity of TPI-CysHHC10 was triggered. In addition, TPI-CysHHC10 could induce the aggregation of G^– bacteria and produce ROS in the site, which was helpful in maximizing the antibacterial effect of ROS in their effective range. On the other hand, the small molecular size and excellent water solubility of TPI-CysHHC10 helped to penetrate the biofilms to achieve an efficient photodynamic anti-biofilm effect inside.