Application of Single-Atom Nanozymes in the Detection of Small Biomolecules: A Review
Abstract
Single-atom nanozymes (SANs) with atomically dispersed metal sites show great potential in small biomolecule detection. This review first summarizes SAN synthesis (wet chemistry, atomic layer deposition, etc.), structural features (tunable coordination, metal-carrier interactions), and catalytic mechanisms (synergistic effects, d-band modulation). Afterwards, this review focuses on the applications of SANs in detecting small biomolecules, including glucose, glutathione, uric acid, ascorbic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and dopamine via colorimetry, fluorescence, and electrochemistry. Challenges such as matrix interference and stability, along with future directions in flexible electronics and clinical translation, are discussed, aiming to advance SAN-based detection technologies.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Advanced Nanomaterials in Catalysis
Nanocluster Synthesis and Applications
Advanced biosensing and bioanalysis techniques
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Molecules
- Publisher
- MDPI AG
- Volume
- 31
- Issue
- 8
- Pages
- 1242–1242
- Publication date
- 9 April 2026
- Language
- EN