Revolutionizing nanozyme technology with metal-organic frameworks: Classification, catalytic mechanisms, regulation and applications in biotechnology

•The classification of MOF-based nanozymes were described in detail.•The catalytic mechanisms and regulation of MOF-based nanozymes were introduced.•The applications in biotechnology of MOF-based nanozymes were summarized.•The challenges and prospects of MOF-based nanozymes were discussed. Nanozymes, particularly those based on metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), have demonstrated remarkable potential in the biotechnological sector owing to their stability, straightforward synthesis, and exceptional catalytic efficiency. As porous materials, MOFs possess a wealth of active sites that can mimic the functions of natural enzymes, thereby attracting significant interest in the realm of bio-catalysis. Enhancing the catalytic performance of MOF-based nanozymes is crucial for expanding and improving their applications. This paper review comprehensively summarizes the classification, catalytic mechanism, and regulation approaches of MOF-based nanozymes over the past five years. Furthermore, the recent applications in biosensing, antibacterial, anti-cancer, and antioxidant biomedical fields were explored. Lastly, the challenges and prospects of this rapidly evolving field are outlined to stimulate further innovative research and drive its ongoing advancement.