Enzymatic Nanomotors Integrated with Plant Extracts: Biochemical Mechanisms, Applications, and Clinical Perspectives

Enzymatic nanomotors (EMNMs) represent an emerging class of intelligent nanosystems that exploit enzymatic biocatalysis to generate autonomous motion within biological environments, including complex cellular and tissue contexts within living organisms. Owing to their ability to utilize endogenous biofuels, high biocompatibility, and capacity for targeted propulsion, EMNMs have demonstrated considerable potential in diverse biomedical applications. These include targeted drug delivery, cancer therapy, diagnostics, and bioimaging, as well as the traversal of biological barriers. This review comprehensively discusses the mechanisms underlying enzyme-driven propulsion, nanomotor design strategies, and their current and prospective applications in medicine, while also addressing major challenges associated with enzymatic stability, biocompatibility, motion control, and clinical safety. Furthermore, future perspectives are highlighted, including enzyme cascade systems, intelligent nanomotor swarms, biodegradable materials, and strategies facilitating clinical translation. As a representative example of practical application, curcumin was employed as a model therapeutic agent due to its well-established anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, enabling evaluation of the nanomotors' capability for controlled, pH-responsive release of therapeutic cargo. Nanophytomedicine enhances the therapeutic efficacy of phytochemicals by improving their stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery through nanocarrier systems. The integration of phytotherapy with nanotechnology offers promising opportunities for the development of safer and more effective therapeutic strategies.