Antioxidant nanozymes: current status and future perspectives in spinal cord injury treatments.

Abstract

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life - altering neurological condition that carries significant global morbidity and mortality. It results in the disruption of motor and sensory pathways below the site of injury, often leading to permanent functional impairments and severely diminished quality of life. Despite decades of clinical and research efforts, current treatment options remain largely supportive, with limited success in promoting meaningful functional recovery or neural regeneration. In recent years, nanozymes have emerged as a promising frontier in the therapeutic landscape for SCI. These nanomaterial - based artificial enzymes offer several compelling advantages over their natural counterparts, including superior stability under physiological conditions, adjustable catalytic activity, cost - effective production, and prolonged shelf life. Unlike traditional therapeutic agents, nanozymes can be engineered to closely mimic the activity of key endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. By scavenging reactive oxygen species and attenuating oxidative damage, nanozymes help preserve neuronal integrity and support the intrinsic repair processes of the central nervous system. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying SCI and examines the classification and catalytic principles governing nanozyme activity. We delve into the molecular pathways through which nanozymes exert their neuroprotective effects, particularly their roles in modulating oxidative stress and suppressing inflammatory responses following injury. Additionally, we explore the current challenges associated with nanozyme development, such as biocompatibility, targeted delivery, and long - term safety, and discuss future directions for optimizing their therapeutic potential in clinical applications. By synthesizing emerging insights into antioxidant nanozyme - based strategies, this review aims to contribute to the evolving landscape of SCI treatment and to highlight the transformative potential of nanozymes in advancing neuroregenerative medicine. These innovative agents represent a new horizon in SCI management, offering renewed hope for improving neurological outcomes and quality of life in affected individuals.