Atomically Dispersed Single-Atom Catalysts (SACs) and Enzymes (SAzymes): Synthesis and Application in Alzheimer's Disease Treatment

Abstract

Atomically dispersed single-atom catalysts (SACs) and enzymes (SAzymes) represent a burgeoning class of catalysts with immense potential for addressing pressing global health challenges such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). SACs, comprising isolated metal atoms on a support surface, offer unparalleled atomic efficiency, heightened reactivity, and reduced operational costs. Nonetheless, issues of stability and aggregation hinder their widespread industrial application. The SAC paradigm has expanded to encompass SAzymes, integrating SACs with natural metalloprotease catalysts. SAzymes facilitate controlled electronic exchange, synergistic productivity, and enhanced biosafety. Notably, M-N-C SACs, featuring M-Nx active sites, closely mimic natural metalloenzymes, exhibiting heightened selectivity and sensitivity. Fabrication techniques, including pyrolysis and wet-chemistry approaches, facilitate SAC production. This comprehensive review encapsulates the progressive advancements in SACs and SAzymes, underscoring their pivotal role in biomedical domains. We elucidate how SACs and SAzymes bridge the divide between conventional enzymes and nanozymes, offering controlled electron transfer, superior catalytic efficiency, and enhanced biosafety in medical applications.