Artificial metallo-nanozyme for electron transfer control

Dr Amit Vernekar and his PhD student Adarsh Fatrekar at CSIR-CLRI, Chennai, have created a next-gen nanozyme called Cu-Phen. This new type of artificial enzyme, a metallo-nanozyme, can precisely control electron transfer, which is essential for energy generation in cells. The breakthrough could support advances in medicine, sustainable energy, and environmental technologies.

It is carefully engineered using copper ions and the amino acid phenylalanine to mimic natural enzymes more closely.

Regular nanozymes often have poorly defined active sites, leading to uncontrolled electron flow. This can create harmful byproducts and interfere with cell function.

Cu-Phen interacts with cytochrome c, a key protein in the cell’s energy pathway, enabling precise and safe electron transfer — just like in natural systems. It also reduces oxygen to water efficiently, avoiding harmful byproducts like reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage cells. This makes it safer and more effective for biological use.

With its precisely designed structure, Cu-Phen stands out among nanozymes and points to a promising future for creating smarter, safer artificial enzymes for sustainable energy and health solutions.