Advances in oxygenation nanozymes for overcoming diabetic ulcers

Abstract

Diabetic ulcers, affecting 15–25% of diabetes patients worldwide, are characterized by localized hypoxia that impedes healing. This review explores the emerging field of in situ oxygen-generating nanozymes as a promising approach to diabetic ulcer treatment. Nanozymes, synthetic nanoparticles mimicking natural enzyme activities, have shown potential in generating oxygen in situ, scavenging reactive oxygen species, and modulating the wound microenvironment. Materials such as manganese dioxide, cerium dioxide, platinum nanoparticles, and molybdenum-based quantum dots have demonstrated efficacy in preclinical studies, often exhibiting multiple enzyme-like activities. These nanozymes have shown accelerated wound closure, enhanced angiogenesis, and improved tissue regeneration in animal models. However, challenges remain, including optimizing nanozyme–hydrogel interactions, addressing the potential toxicity of metal-based nanomaterials, and determining optimal oxygen concentrations for various wound conditions. Future research directions include developing biocompatible nanozymes, enhancing delivery systems, and exploring combination therapies. This review underscores the potential of nanozyme-based therapies to revolutionize the treatment of diabetic ulcers and potentially other hypoxia-related conditions.