Progress and potential

The research explores graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as metal-free nanozymes for highly efficient tumor chemodynamic therapy (CDT). Although CDT has been well known by cancer-related practitioners, the potential safety of metal-based nanocatalytic reagents has yet to be explored, while the catalytic activity of non-metallic nanocatalytic drugs is insufficient in inhibiting tumor proliferation. This study introduces N, P diatomic doping as a means to adjust the catalytic performance of NPGQDs. The synergistic electron effect of N and P atoms dramatically reduced the energy barrier of the peroxidase-mimetic reaction, thus enhancing the enzyme activity. NPGQDs derived from green precursors avoid product contamination and harmful reagent use, thereby ensuring their excellent biological safety. Given excellent catalytic ability, high tumor specificity, and biological benignity, NPGQDs have achieved safe and efficient tumor treatment effects and represent the development direction of CDT.

Link to the article:https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2590238523006197?via%3Dihub