Emerging Paradigms in Nanozyme: Strategies in Fabrication, Cancer Targeting, and Biosensing

Nanozymes are nanomaterials that emulate the catalytic functions of natural enzymes. They are considered a viable alternative to natural enzymes due to their high stability, ease of production, low synthesis costs, and significant catalytic potential. Unlike natural enzymes, nanozymes can withstand high temperatures and are less susceptible to degradation in physiological systems, making them suitable candidates for various medicinal applications. Nanodynamic therapies, including chemodynamic, photothermal, photodynamic, and sonodynamic therapies, exhibit effective apoptotic activity in cancer treatment by generating reactive oxygen species. Consequently, nanozymes have garnered considerable attention in the field of oncology. These therapies tend to be more effective when combined with nanozymes, enhancing cancer treatment by facilitating targeted cell death in tumors. This review delves into the fabrication processes of nanozymes, highlighting various methods including sol-gel synthesis, chemical precipitation, and hydrothermal techniques. Also, this review classifies nanozymes based on their origin, including natural, synthetic, and hybrid types, and discusses their distinct properties that contribute to their applicability in cancer therapy. Furthermore, the review explores diverse therapeutic approaches utilizing nanozymes, including targeted drug delivery, photothermal therapy, and combination therapies, elucidating their mechanisms of action and potential to enhance treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects. By integrating nanozymes into cancer therapy, we aim to pave the way for more effective and personalized treatment strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes. This detailed exploration offers valuable insights for researchers and clinicians aiming to harness the unique capabilities of nanozymes in the ongoing fight against cancer.