Nanozymes, tiny synthetic catalysts that mimic the activity of natural enzymes, are gaining traction in fields such as biomedicine, chemical engineering, and environmental science. Unlike conventional enzymes derived from biological sources, nanozymes are often composed of inorganic materials, particularly metal elements. While their performance can be impressive, these inorganic counterparts pose significant challenges, primarily concerning toxicity, cost, and complex fabrication processes. Encouraging advancements in the development of organic nanozymes are now addressing these issues, paving the way for wider application in various sectors, including food production and agriculture.
Recent research from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign sheds light on organic nanozymes, highlighting their potential advantages and applications. The paper titled “Advancements in Organic Materials-Based Nanozymes for Broader Applications,” published in *Trends in Chemistry*, emphasizes how organic nanozymes can harness catalytic properties without the detrimental drawbacks seen in their inorganic counterparts.
Since their introduction in 2007, inorganic nanozymes have enabled researchers to replicate enzymatic functions using materials like iron oxide nanoparticles. Although advancements have been remarkable, these nanozymes require high-cost raw materials and elaborate fabricating processes that can take several days. This makes them less practical for widespread use. Lead author Dong Hoon Lee discusses how these issues necessitated the exploration of organic alternatives: “Inorganic nanozymes require expensive components, and their complex production can be prohibitive. Moreover, their potential toxicity raises safety concerns.”
In contrast, organic nanozymes are marked by their cost-effectiveness and environmental compatibility. They utilize organic materials, including polymers and biomacromolecules, which can often be produced quickly, significantly reducing production time. Co-author Mohammed Kamruzzaman highlights the economic implications, stating, “While precious metals for inorganic nanozymes can run up to $400 per gram, the equivalent organic materials cost less than 50 cents per gram—making organic nanozymes economically viable for real-world applications.”
Organic nanozymes represent a diverse category of materials, including polymers, biomacromolecules such as cellulose, organic compounds, and biological materials like DNA or peptides. The current research categorizes them into four distinct types based on these materials, illustrating the differences in their chemical structures, functionalities, and catalytic activities. This classification is invaluable, providing foundational knowledge for future scientific inquiries and applications.
These organic nanozymes not only offer a pathway for sustainable catalysis but also share a non-toxic profile, making them suitable for critical sectors like agriculture and food safety. Interestingly, while they may still contain minimal metal components—necessary for the catalytic activity—they exhibit significantly lower toxicity levels.
Nanozymes were predominantly researched in the biomedical sector, where about 80% of the focus has historically been placed. Common applications included diagnostic testing, medical imaging, and biosensing technologies. However, there have been growing concerns regarding the potential adverse effects of inorganic nanozymes on cell viability and overall health. Organic nanozymes could shift these dynamics, allowing for safer applications across various fields.
Kamruzzaman and Lee’s previous studies on nanozymes have explored agricultural applications, focusing on the detection of pesticides in food. The ultimate vision is to simplify this process, enabling consumers to utilize mobile applications that provide immediate results on pesticide concentrations in their food. Such developments represent a significant step toward integrating nanozymes into everyday life—bringing advanced monitoring and safety solutions to markets worldwide.
Despite their advantages, the journey for organic nanozymes is still in its infancy. Kamruzzaman points out that there are substantial challenges that need to be addressed for broader applications. Notably, the limited availability of suitable organic materials poses a significant hurdle. However, there is hope on the horizon, as researchers are investigating promising options such as lipids and amino acids, which may facilitate the development of the next generation of nanozymes.
The future of organic nanozymes appears promising, but the research community must navigate various challenges. There is potential for breakthroughs that could redefine catalysis in environmentally friendly and economically viable ways—propelling us toward a sustainable future. As these materials evolve, they hold the promise of transforming practices across multiple sectors and contributing to a healthier planet.