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Single-Atom Nanozymes in Analytical Chemistry: Opportunities and Challenges
Eslam M Hamed1,2, Mostafa M Elsaady1,2, Sam F Y Li1
1Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore 117543, Singapore.
Analytical Chemistry
|October 17, 2025
Summary
Single-atom nanozymes (SANs) offer advanced molecular detection and environmental sensing. These catalysts show great promise for biosensors and pollutant monitoring, despite fabrication challenges.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Single-atom nanozymes (SANs) are atomically dispersed catalysts with high activity and specificity.
- They offer a novel approach for molecular detection and environmental sensing applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of SANs in molecular diagnostics and environmental monitoring.
- To highlight their integration into advanced sensing technologies and discuss challenges and future directions.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on SANs applications in biosensors and environmental sensors.
- Discussion of SANs integration with fluorescence-based, electrochemical, and lab-on-a-chip systems.
- Exploration of data analytics integration, including machine learning and AI.
Main Results:
- SANs enable ultrasensitive, rapid, and label-free detection of biomarkers (proteins, nucleic acids, metabolites).
- SANs are effective in detecting environmental pollutants like heavy metals, pesticides, and CO2.
- Integration with miniaturized devices and advanced analytics enhances diagnostic capabilities.
Conclusions:
- SANs hold transformative potential for molecular diagnostics and environmental sensing.
- Challenges in fabrication, stability, and cost need to be addressed for widespread adoption.
- Future research should focus on optimizing SANs performance and integration with AI for enhanced analytical applications.
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