Beyond single-analyte detection: Advancing molecularly imprinted polymers for simultaneous multi-target sensing

Abstract

Molecular imprinting in polymers is one of the most rapidly growing trends in chemical sensing, offering high stability and selectivity for target analytes. Delving into the synthesis methods and highlighting innovations that enable the simultaneous determination of multiple analytes, we extensively and critically reviewed herein the advancements in multi-analyte molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) sensors applied in various fields. The fundamentals of MIP-based electrochemical and optical sensors featuring hybrid recognition systems, as well as the challenges related to removing templates from MIPs, separation of detection signals, and upscaling for commercialization, are deeply discussed. Moreover, considering the potential of MIPs as efficient platforms for multi-target sensing, we provide insight into the critical aspects that hinder the MIP sensors from crossing laboratory borders. By identifying recent progress and persistent challenges, the current review serves as a guide for advancing MIP-based sensing platforms for multiple target analytes recognizing across medical, pharmaceutical, and environmental domains.