Advances in multiplexed photoelectrochemical sensors for multiple components

Abstract

• Multiplexed PEC sensors enable highly sensitive, multi-target detection across various analytes. • The principles for multiplexed PEC sensors are introduced. • Strategies for advancing multiplexed PEC sensors are elucidated. • The applications of multiplexed PEC sensors are summarized. Multiplexed photoelectrochemical (M-PEC) sensors are transforming the landscape of analytical detection by offering unprecedented sensitivity and the ability to simultaneously detect multiple targets—ranging from biomolecules and small organic compounds to metal ions. These sensors represent a significant leap forward in key sectors such as biomedical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and food safety, overcoming limitations of traditional single-signal PEC sensors, which often struggle with interference and selectivity in complex samples. Recent innovations in materials, such as quantum dots, metal–organic frameworks, and nanocomposites, have driven improvements in light-harvesting efficiency, signal amplification, and target specificity. Furthermore, advanced multiplexing strategies—such as wavelength-resolved, potential-resolved, spatial-resolved, and multi-mode sensing—have empowered these sensors to achieve enhanced performance in detecting multiple analytes with minimal crosstalk. Despite impressive progress, challenges remain, particularly in improving long-term stability, scalability, and real-world applicability. This review discusses cutting-edge advancements in M-PEC sensor detection strategies and the applications of M-PEC sensors for detecting multiple targets, while offering perspectives on future directions, including the push toward miniaturization, high-throughput screening, and ultra-sensitive trace-level detection, setting the stage for widespread practical implementation across various applications.