Advancements and Applications of Single-Atom Nanozymes in Sensing Analysis

Single-atom nanozymes, with their atomically dispersed metal active sites, distinctive atom utilization rate, and tunable electronic structure, demonstrate great promise in the field of sensing analysis. This paper reviews the latest research progress on single-atom nanozymes in sensing applications. We classify single-atom nanozymes based on both their structural characteristics, such as carbon-based carriers, frameworks and their derivatives, metal oxides, metal sulfides, and organic polymer carriers, and their unique catalytic properties, including peroxidase, oxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and multi-enzyme mimetic activities. Furthermore, we discuss the application of single-atom nanozymes in the sensitive detection of biological small molecules, antioxidants, ions, enzyme activities and their inhibitors, as well as cells and viruses. Finally, we highlight the opportunities and challenges for advancing the practical application and further research of single-atom nanozymes in the field of sensing analysis.