Recent Progress of Molecularly Imprinted Optical Sensors

Abstract

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) have been widely utilized in the field of sensing due to their specific and high affinity towards target molecules. Combining the selective preconcentration capability of MIPs and the rapid quantitation merit of optical analytical techniques, MIP optical sensors have been applied to the analysis of various kinds of samples and have received considerable attention in recent years. In this review, we overviewed the progress of MIP sensors in combination with various optical detection methods, including fluorescence, surface plasmon resonance, Raman scattering, and chemiluminescence. The construction, characterization, working principle, and application of four kinds of MIP optical sensors are covered in detail. Finally, the opportunities and challenges currently encountered by MIP optical sensors are summarized.