Nanozyme-Based Remodeling of Disease Microenvironments for Disease Prevention and Treatment: A Review

Nanomaterials that can mimic the activity of various enzymes have been studied extensively in the biomedical field in recent years. Nanozymes offer better stability and economic value in comparison to natural enzymes. Additionally, nanozymes have characteristics of nanomaterials, such as photothermal properties and designability, and therefore have considerable potential. The cellular microenvironment provides the basis for maintaining normal cell growth and function. Increasing evidence shows that imbalances in the homeostasis of the cellular microenvironment constitute a major factor in the development of many diseases. Nanozymes have received considerable attention in recent years as regulators of the cellular microenvironment. In this Review, research on the use of nanozymes to remodel the disease microenvironment is discussed. First, the definition, classification, and enzyme-like activities of nanozymes are introduced; several major disease microenvironments are summarized including tumor, inflammatory, and trauma microenvironments. The role of nanozymes in disease microenvironments and the main strategies for constructing intelligent and responsive nanozyme systems are discussed. The specific applications of nanozymes in remodeling the diseased microenvironment are highlighted. Finally, the therapeutic strategies of nanozymes to remodel the disease microenvironment are summarized and prospected. Nanozyme disease microenvironment remodeling is expected to become a major therapeutic strategy or an adjunct for the prevention and treatment of related diseases.