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

Abstract

Copper-based single-atom nanozymes (Cu SAzymes) have emerged as a revolutionary class of enzyme mimics, distinguished by their maximized atom utilization efficiency, well-defined active sites, and superior catalytic performance. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in Cu SAzymes, systematically outlining their diverse enzyme-like activities, the atomic-level strategies for modulating their catalytic behavior, and their burgeoning applications in biosensing, antibacterial and anticancer therapy, and anti-inflammatory treatment. We emphasize the critical structure-activity relationships that govern their multi-enzyme capabilities and highlight innovative designs that enable synergistic and stimulus-responsive therapies. By establishing a framework that links atomic structure to enzyme-mimicking function and, ultimately, to advanced therapeutic utility, this review not only summarizes the current state of the art but also outlines prevailing challenges and future directions, underscoring the significant potential of Cu SAzymes to drive interdisciplinary innovations in nanobiotechnology and precision medicine.