Core-Shell Nanozymes "Artificial Peroxidase": Stability with Superior Catalytic Properties

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Enzymes are crucial catalysts but often lack stability.
• Developing robust artificial enzymes is essential for practical applications.
• Prussian Blue (PB) and nickel hexacyanoferrate (NiHCF) are promising materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize core-shell PB-NiHCF nanozymes.
• To evaluate their catalytic activity and stability compared to enzymes.
• To assess their performance in hydrogen peroxide sensing.

Main Methods:

• Catalytic synthesis of PB core nanoparticles.
• Stabilization with NiHCF shell to form core-shell nanozymes.
• Assessing catalytic activity via rate constants for specific substrates.
• Evaluating sensor performance under harsh conditions.

Main Results:

• Core-shell PB-NiHCF nanozymes (66 nm) exhibit significantly higher catalytic rates than peroxidase enzymes.
• Nanozymes demonstrate remarkable stability, retaining properties after prolonged storage.
• Immobilized nanozymes (45 nm) form sensitive hydrogen peroxide sensors.
• PB-NiHCF sensors retain >75% sensitivity under harsh conditions, unlike PB-only sensors.

Conclusions:

• Core-shell PB-NiHCF nanozymes offer superior stability and catalytic efficiency.
• These nanozymes represent a viable alternative to natural enzymes.
• Potential applications include advanced biosensors and anti-inflammatory drug development.