Nanozymes As Emerging Therapeutic Tools in Oxidative Stress-Mediated Ocular Diseases

Abstract

Oxidative stress is a central pathological factor in the onset and progression of various ocular diseases, including cataract, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. Excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) disrupts the redox homeostasis of ocular tissues, leading to lipid peroxidation, protein modification, and cellular damage. Although conventional antioxidants have been explored to counteract oxidative damage, their clinical efficacy is often limited by poor stability, rapid degradation, and insufficient bioavailability. In this context, nanozymes nanomaterials possessing intrinsic enzyme-like catalytic activities have emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy. These nanostructures can mimic natural antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase, enabling sustained and efficient ROS scavenging.

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the role of oxidative stress in ocular pathophysiology and highlights the therapeutic potential of nanozymes in mitigating ROS-mediated damage. Various classes of nanozymes, including metal-based, carbon-based, and polymeric systems, are discussed with respect to their catalytic mechanisms and biomedical applications. Special emphasis is placed on their use in ocular drug delivery, where nanozymes offer advantages such as enhanced stability, prolonged activity, and improved tissue penetration. Furthermore, recent preclinical studies demonstrating the efficacy of nanozymes in different ocular disease models are critically analyzed. Despite their promising attributes, concerns related to long-term safety, biocompatibility, and clinical translation remain to be addressed. Overall, nanozymes represent a novel and versatile platform with significant potential to advance the management of oxidative stress-mediated ocular disorders.