Gold Nanozymes: From Concept to Biomedical Applications

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biochemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Gold nanoparticles possess enzyme-mimicking activities (peroxidase, oxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, reductase).
• Their synthesis, tunability, biocompatibility, and low cost make them attractive alternatives to biological enzymes.
• Applications span biomedicine, biochemical analyses, food safety, and environmental monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review recent progress on gold nanozymes.
• To present their fundamentals, catalytic properties, and potential applications.
• To discuss current challenges and future prospects.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of over 200 research papers.
• Analysis of factors influencing nanozyme catalytic properties (morphology, surface chemistry, pH, temperature).
• Evaluation of biorecognition element immobilization effects and implementation paths.

Main Results:

• Nanozyme activity is significantly influenced by nanoparticle morphology, surface chemistry, and external parameters.
• Immobilization of biorecognition elements can lead to unpredictable activity changes.
• Gold nanozymes show promise in clinical diagnostics and oxidative stress regulation.

Conclusions:

• Rational design of efficient gold nanozymes is crucial and remains a challenge.
• Understanding external parameter effects on multiple coexisting activities is essential.
• Further in vivo toxicity studies and exploration beyond biomedicine are required.