Metallic Nanozymes: From Catalytic Mechanisms to Biomedical Therapeutics and Flexible Wearable Integration.

Abstract

Nanozymes, a groundbreaking class of artificial enzymes, have been recognized as one of the top ten emerging technologies in chemistry by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry in 2022, which has brought biomedical applications and wearable electronic devices to a different stage due to their enzyme-like catalytic activities. These synthetic catalysts effectively overcome the limitations associated with natural enzymes, including their inherent instability and high costs, while simultaneously providing adjustable redox activity and multifunctional capabilities. In this review paper, we summarize the catalytic mechanisms of metallic nanozymes, their biomedical applications, including biosensing, antimicrobial therapies, tumor therapies, and anti-inflammatory strategies, as well as their integration into advanced wearable electronic devices. Finally, we discuss future research directions to guide the progress of next-generation nanozymes for precision medicine and smart diagnostics. This review could provide a pathway for interdisciplinary metallic nanozymes advancements, highlighting their potential to revolutionize personalized medicine and diagnostics, while addressing unsolved challenges in biosafety and scalability.