Metal-organic framework mimetic enzymes: Exploring new horizons in brain chemistry

• Published in: Chinese chemical letters Vol. 36; no. 9; p. 110652
• Main Authors: Liu, Changmin, Wang, Ying, Bao, Yongqi, Lin, Yuqing
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.09.2025
• Subjects: Brain chemistry; Chemical catalysis; Metal-organic frameworks; Mimicking enzymes; Natural enzymes; Natural enzymes; Mimicking enzymes; Brain chemistry; Chemical catalysis; Metal-organic frameworks
• ISSN: 1001-8417
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cclet.2024.110652

Natural enzymes are able to precisely bind substrates and catalyze activities because of their distinct framework structures. To mimic this ability, chemists are designing framework structures that resemble real enzymes. The use of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to mimic natural enzymes has advanced recently; this paper reviews these developments. This research specifically focuses on how the catalytically active center of natural enzymes can be exactly replicated by carefully controlling the composition and structure of MOFs. By identifying and attaching to substrates, MOFs can accelerate changes in a manner akin to that of real enzymes. The role of MOFs in simulating catalytic processes, enzyme activity, and potential uses in brain chemistry are also investigated in this work. It also discusses the most recent MOF applications in detecting and treating chemical abnormalities of the brain. The report finishes with a discussion of future research areas and potential applications, providing useful insights for researchers in the subject. [Display omitted] This paper provides insights into the innovative use of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as natural enzyme mimics, focusing on their precise replication of enzyme active sites and their emerging role in catalytic processes and brain chemistry applications. It outlines the potential of MOFs in detecting and resolving brain chemistry abnormalities, providing a glimpse into the prospects of enzyme mimicry and its medical implications.