Single-atom nanozymes catalytically surpassing naturally occurring enzymes as sustained stitching for brain trauma

Nat Commun. 2022 Aug 12;13(1):4744. doi: 10.1038/s41467-022-32411-z.

Abstract

Regenerable nanozymes with high catalytic stability and sustainability are promising substitutes for naturally-occurring enzymes but are limited by insufficient and non-selective catalytic activities. Herein, we developed single-atom nanozymes of RhN4, VN4, and Fe-Cu-N6 with catalytic activities surpassing natural enzymes. Notably, Rh/VN4 preferably forms an Rh/V-O-N4 active center to decrease reaction energy barriers and mediates a "two-sided oxygen-linked" reaction path, showing 4 and 5-fold higher affinities in peroxidase-like activity than the FeN4 and natural horseradish peroxidase. Furthermore, RhN4 presents a 20-fold improved affinity in the catalase-like activity compared to the natural catalase; Fe-Cu-N6 displays selectivity towards the superoxide dismutase-like activity; VN4 favors a 7-fold higher glutathione peroxidase-like activity than the natural glutathione peroxidase. Bioactive sutures with Rh/VN4 show recyclable catalytic features without apparent decay in 1 month and accelerate the scalp healing from brain trauma by promoting the vascular endothelial growth factor, regulating the immune cells like macrophages, and diminishing inflammation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Brain Injuries, Traumatic*
  • Catalase / metabolism
  • Catalysis
  • Glutathione Peroxidase / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A*

Substances

  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Catalase
  • Glutathione Peroxidase