Superoxide dismutase-mimetic nanozymes: A promising alternative to natural superoxide dismutases for biomedical and industrial applications

Abstract

Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are vital metalloenzymes that catalyze the dismutation of superoxide radicals, thereby shielding cells from oxidative damage. Natural SODs have many obstacles to overcome despite their potential for treatment and diagnosis, such as high production costs, instability, and vulnerability to inactivation in harsh environments. With their improved stability, adjustable catalytic activity, and affordability, synthetic SOD nanozymes have become a viable substitute. The redox-active metal centers and substrate-binding microenvironments of natural SODs, which are essential for effective O₂^•- scavenging, are modeled in the design of these nanozymes. Notwithstanding their benefits, SOD nanozymes still need to be further optimized to overcome drawbacks like complexity of synthesis, catalytic specificity, biocompatibility, and activity enhancement. Customized designs for industrial and biomedical applications are made possible by precise control over nanozymes' properties made possible by advanced fabrication techniques (such as chemical vapor deposition and hydrothermal synthesis). Clarifying catalytic mechanisms, improving synthesis procedures, and creating individualized treatment plans should be the main goals of future research. SOD nanozymes have the potential to completely transform oxidative stress management in industrial, environmental, and medical settings with further development. Finally, the final viewpoint is taken into consideration, along with the difficulties and potential paths for using SOD-mimetic nanozymes in research or business.