Nanozymes with superoxide dismutase activity: Mechanisms, classification, and biomedical applications

Nanozymes with superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity represent a class of artificial enzymes that mimic the catalytic function of natural SOD. This review systematically summarizes the recent advancements in SOD-like nanozymes, focusing on their catalytic mechanisms, material classifications, and biomedical applications. It begins by elucidating the enzymatic mechanisms of native SOD isoforms dependent on their metal cofactors (Cu/Zn, Mn, Fe, Ni). The article then classifies and discusses various synthetic nanozymes, including those based on metals, metal oxides, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and carbon nanomaterials, which exhibit potent ROS scavenging capabilities. Key factors influencing their catalytic performance-such as size, morphology, atomic doping, and surface chemistry-are also critically examined. Furthermore, the review highlights their therapeutic potential in mitigating oxidative stress-related diseases, such as inflammation, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer, and explores their roles in cytoprotection, biosensing, and diagnostics. Finally, current challenges and future prospects toward the clinical translation of SOD nanozymes are outlined.