Applications of iron-based nanoenzymes in wound healing: antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-promoting effects

Bacterial infections pose a significant obstacle to wound healing. Current conventional therapies for wound healing include antibiotic treatment, growth factor therapy, or antioxidant therapy, but these methods suffer from issues such as antibiotic resistance, limited efficacy, and a lack of versatility. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify new treatment approaches. Nanozymes are nanomaterials with enzyme-like activity. Due to their low production costs, high stability, scalability, and multifunctionality, nanozymes have become a prominent focus of antimicrobial research. Among various nanozyme types, metal-based nanozymes offer multiple advantages, including broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and potent catalytic properties. Iron-based nanozymes (FeNZs), leveraging their ability to regulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and scavenging, demonstrate considerable potential in promoting wound healing. Their strong antimicrobial effects, reduction of inflammation, and enhancement of tissue regeneration confer significant advantages for wound care. This paper outlines the dual functions of FeNZs in combating infection and promoting wound repair, along with their underlying mechanisms. It summarizes methods for regulating FeNZ activity and reviews the recent applications of FeNZs in wound healing alongside assessments of their biosafety.