Biomedical and environmental applications via nanobiocatalysts and enzyme immobilization

Abstract

Abstract Nanobiocatalysts have emerged as transformative tools in biomedical science, enabling precise, efficient, and sustainable enzyme-based technologies. By immobilizing enzymes onto nanostructured materials, these systems overcome major limitations, such as poor enzyme stability, limited reusability, and high production costs. There are many immobilization techniques such as adsorption, covalent bonding, encapsulation, entrapment, and cross linking with a focus on their biomedical relevance. The incorporation of nanomaterials such as magnetic nanoparticles, porous silica, carbon nanostructures, and metal–organic frameworks has significantly enhanced enzyme performance under physiological conditions. A particular emphasis is placed on biomedical applications, including targeted drug delivery, high-sensitivity biosensing, thrombolytic therapy for clot dissolution, and management of oxidative stress and inflammation. The emerging role of nanozymes engineered nanomaterials with intrinsic enzyme-like activity is also discussed for their potential in diagnostics and disease modulation. Surface functionalization strategies are addressed to improve enzyme–carrier interactions and ensure biocompatibility in clinical environments. Despite promising outcomes, key challenges remain regarding large-scale production, potential nanotoxicity, and regulatory compliance. Addressing these limitations is essential for translating laboratory findings into practical biomedical solutions. This review provides a comprehensive perspective on how nanobiocatalyst-based platforms are reshaping therapeutic and diagnostic strategies in modern healthcare.

Keywords

• Biomedical applications
• Environmental applications
• Nanobiocatalysts
• Enzyme immobilization