Copper-based single-atom nanozymes: from fundamental insights to biomedical applications

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biochemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Copper-based single-atom nanozymes (Cu SAzymes) are advanced enzyme mimics.
• They exhibit high atom utilization efficiency and well-defined active sites.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of recent advances in Cu SAzymes.
• To outline their enzyme-like activities, design strategies, and applications.
• To establish a link between atomic structure, catalytic function, and therapeutic utility.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of literature on Cu SAzymes.
• Analysis of structure-activity relationships.
• Exploration of design strategies for enhanced catalytic behavior.

Main Results:

• Cu SAzymes demonstrate diverse enzyme-like activities.
• Atomic-level modulation strategies enhance catalytic performance.
• Applications span biosensing, antibacterial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory treatments.

Conclusions:

• Cu SAzymes hold significant potential for nanobiotechnology and precision medicine.
• Innovative designs enable synergistic and stimulus-responsive therapies.
• Further research is needed to address challenges and explore future directions.