Advances in nanotechnology have facilitated the emergence of diverse nanozymes. Photo-regulated nanozymes represent a unique class of enzyme mimics with their activities being precisely modulated by irradiation. The distinct catalytic mechanisms of photo-regulated nanozymes enable their versatile applications across multiple fields, particularly in sensing. However, the low catalytic efficiency of most photo-regulated nanozymes limits their practical application. Designing advanced photo-regulated nanozymes is promising, yet achieving this remains a great challenge. In this review, the catalytic mechanisms of photo-regulated nanozymes are systematically introduced, and several effective strategies for the rational design of advanced photo-regulated nanozymes are also highlighted. Furthermore, we summarize the recent advances of photo-regulated nanozymes in sensing and discuss the potential challenges and the corresponding strategies in their development. It is believed that this review can revolutionize the design concepts of photo-regulated nanozymes and expand their prospects in sensing applications.



