Figure 4.

The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of nanozymes (NZs). (A) NZs are NPs with enzyme-mimicking properties. They mimic enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), oxidase (OXD), and peroxidase (POD). POD or oxidase mimics converting hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) or superoxide (O₂) into ROS such as hydroxyl radicals (·OH) or singlet oxygen (¹O₂). (B) The antibacterial processes and properties of NZs. Catalytic activities of NZs efficiently eliminate bacterial biofilms, showing broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity with minimal biotoxicity. (C) Various NZs exhibit antioxidant properties that help regulate ROS. NZs suppressed inflammatory responses by eliminating ROS, while also lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines and boosting anti-inflammatory cytokines.