Can nanozymes achieve more than enzymes?

Nanozymes have progressed from simple enzyme mimics to a versatile class of artificial catalysts that expand functionality beyond the reach of natural enzymes. Their unique compositional and structural properties confer exceptional versatility in catalysis, enabling catalytic function in non-biological environments, the promotion of non-natural reactions, and the integration of multiple catalytic activities within a single nanostructure. By exploiting nanoscale control over physicochemical parameters, and/or emulating enzyme architectures, nanozymes can achieve finely tunable activity and selectivity. Their ability to undergo facile surface functionalization and provide electrical connectivity further enhances their performance in complex systems. Collectively, these attributes extend catalysis beyond the constraints of natural enzymes, driving innovations in an array of different fields including biomedicine, agriculture, environmental remediation, and energy conversion. Looking forward, rationally designed nanozymes have the potential to redefine the field of catalysis, evolving from biomimetic surrogates into transformative materials that rival, and ultimately surpass, the capabilities of natural enzymes.