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Metal-Organic Framework Multizyme Colloids with Joint Antioxidant and Protease Function.
Laila Noureen1, Dániel Viczián1, Gergely F Samu2
1MTA-SZTE Momentum Biocolloids Research Group, Interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Hungary.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|July 7, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed a novel bimetallic Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) nanozyme with triple enzyme-mimicking activity. This study details its colloidal stability and potential for liquid-phase biocatalysis, sensing, and therapeutics.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Metal-organic framework (MOF) nanozymes with multiple biocatalytic functions are scarce.
- The colloidal behavior of MOF nanozymes in liquid media is crucial but understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report aqueous dispersions of a bimetallic CuZr-MOF nanozyme with triple enzyme-mimicking activity.
- To investigate the colloidal behavior and stability of the CuZr-MOF nanozyme in aqueous solutions.
- To demonstrate the integrated enzymatic and colloidal properties of multifunctional MOF nanozymes.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive microscopy, spectroscopy, and diffraction analyses for structural characterization.
- Systematic investigation of surface charges, hydrodynamic sizes, and aggregation rates in monovalent electrolyte solutions.
- Application of DLVO-Hofmeister theory to describe interparticle forces.
Main Results:
- The bimetallic CuZr-MOF nanozyme exhibits small particle size and fine aqueous dispersions.
- Well-defined colloidal stability regimes were identified across various conditions, with observed ion-specific effects.
- The CuZr-MOF demonstrated superoxide dismutase (SOD), horseradish peroxidase (HRP), and protease-like activities.
Conclusions:
- The CuZr-MOF nanozyme possesses a unique combination of antioxidant and hydrolytic functions.
- The study successfully correlated colloidal properties with enzymatic activities in a multifunctional MOF.
- These findings highlight the potential of multifunctional MOF nanozymes for liquid-phase biocatalysis, sensing, and therapeutics.
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