Heterocyclic effect boosted peroxidase-like activity of MIL(Fe) metal-organic framework for colorimetric assay and dye removal

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as promising candidates for enzyme mimics due to their abundant pore structures and adjustable active sites. The catalytic activity particularly depends on the electronic character of the organic ligand. In this study, we report an iron-based MOF nanozyme FeTDC, created by replacing the 1,4-dicarboxybenzene ligand with five-membered 2,5-thiophenedicarboxylic acid (H2TDC). In comparison with the phenyl analogue, the sulfur-based heterocyclic ligand demonstrates high electron delocalization, and a low pKa value, which are beneficial for enhancing the metal/ligand interactions. Accordingly, FeTDC can facilitate the oxidation of the benzidine substrate in the presence of H2O2, thereby exhibiting remarkable peroxidase-like activity. The generation of hydroxyl radical (•OH) at the Fe active sites contributes to the catalytic process. Furthermore, the smartphone-assisted colorimetric assay of pyrophosphate was developed with high sensitivity, based on its inhibitory effect. When FeTDC was utilized for the removal of benzidine dye under high-salt condition, a 90 % of removal rate was achieved due to the synergistic effect of enzyme catalysis and physical adsorption. This work presents a novel perspective of heterocyclic effect on the design of MOF nanozymes, thereby expanding their applicability in the control of pollutants. [Display omitted] •The heterocyclic effect was exploited to enhance the catalytic activity of MOF nanozyme.•The iron-based MOF nanozyme was created with five-membered 2,5-thiophenedicarboxylic acid as the organic ligand.•FeTDC exhibits superior peroxidase-like activity in compassion with the phenyl analogue.•The nanozyme method was proposed for the efficient removal of benzidine dye under high-salt condition.