Low-Temperature Adaptive Single-Atom Iron Nanozymes against Viruses in the Cold Chain.

Outbreaks of viral infectious diseases, such as the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza A virus (IAV), pose a great threat to human health. Viral spread is accelerated worldwide by the development of cold chain logistics; Therefore, an effective antiviral approach is required. In this study, it is aimed to develop a distinct antiviral strategy using nanozymes with low-temperature adaptability, suitable for cold chain logistics. Phosphorus (P) atoms are added to the remote counter position of Fe-N-C center to prepare FeN4P2-single-atom nanozymes (SAzymes), exhibiting lipid oxidase (OXD)-like activity at cold chain temperatures (-20, and 4 °C). This feature enables FeN4P2-SAzymes to disrupt multiple enveloped viruses (human, swine, and avian coronaviruses, and H1-H11 subtypes of IAV) by catalyzing lipid peroxidation of the viral lipid envelope. Under the simulated conditions of cold chain logistics, FeN4P2-SAzymes are successfully applied as antiviral coatings on outer packaging and personal protective equipment; Therefore, FeN4P2-SAzymes with low-temperature adaptability and broad-spectrum antiviral properties may serve as key materials for developing specific antiviral approaches to interrupt viral transmission through the cold chain.

Diatomic iron nanozyme with lipoxidase-like activity for efficient inactivation of enveloped virus.

Enveloped viruses encased within a lipid bilayer membrane are highly contagious and can cause many infectious diseases like influenza and COVID-19, thus calling for effective prevention and inactivation strategies. Here, we develop a diatomic iron nanozyme with lipoxidase-like (LOX-like) activity for the inactivation of enveloped virus. The diatomic iron sites can destruct the viral envelope via lipid peroxidation, thus displaying non-specific virucidal property. In contrast, natural LOX exhibits low antiviral performance, manifesting the advantage of nanozyme over the natural enzyme. Theoretical studies suggest that the Fe-O-Fe motif can match well the energy levels of Fe2 minority ß-spin d orbitals and pentadiene moiety π* orbitals, and thus significantly lower the activation barrier of cis,cis-1,4-pentadiene moiety in the vesicle membrane. We showcase that the diatomic iron nanozyme can be incorporated into air purifier to disinfect airborne flu virus. The present strategy promises a future application in comprehensive biosecurity control.