Fig. 5: Biocatalytic characteristics of nanozymes.

a Nanozymes may exhibit high activity on multiple levels: at the single-site level, particularly when they possess enzyme-like active coordination structures; at the single-particle level, owing to the presence of multiple active sites; and at the single-mass level (specific activity), due to the high proportion of active ingredients relative to the overall mass. b Many nanozymes possess multiple biocatalytic activities, such as CeO₂ (left), which can cascade or synergize to positively promote the reaction process. However, they may also produce negative effects due to competition for substrates or active sites. c Unlike most enzymes that only catalyze under mild physiological conditions, some nanozymes can catalyze biochemical reactions under extreme conditions such as low temperature, high temperature, and high salt concentration. d The activity of nanozymes is influenced by chemical factors such as pH, buffer composition, and some small molecules or ionic inhibitors or activators, and responds to physical stimuli such as heat, light, magnetism, radiation, and ultrasound. SOD, superoxide dismutase.