Nanozymes for nanohealthcare

Nanozymes, nanomaterial-based artificial enzymes, exhibit potential for emulating the catalytic functions inherent in enzymes. Nanozymes have advantages such as low cost, facile synthesis, high stability and adjustable activities. As a promising approach for healthcare, nanozymes have sparked considerable interest, and have been chosen as one of the 2022 Top Ten Emerging Technologies in Chemistry by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). This Primer provides theranostic insights from the nanozyme toolbox, encompassing the design of nanoparticles, evaluation of activities and applications. We focus on rational strategies to enhance nanozyme activities, emphasizing standardized evaluations across different activities, and outline specific details for their practical applications. The selection of candidates for diagnosis, as well as those for in vivo theranostic applications, is carefully considered based on appropriateness. We also acknowledge current challenges and limitations, presenting future perspectives and positioning nanozymes as an alternative and effective choice in theranostics. This Primer aims to contribute to the understanding and advancement of nanozyme applications in healthcare, offering a comprehensive guide for researchers in this dynamic field. Nanozymes are nanomaterial-based artificial enzymes that can emulate the catalytic functions inherent in enzymes. In this Primer, Zhang et al. discuss the nanozyme toolbox, including their design and modification, characterization, activity evaluation and applications in healthcare.