Recent Advances in Electrochemiluminescence Imaging Applications

Abstract

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) is a special form of chemiluminescence, where light emission results from electrochemically triggered chemical reactions. By eliminating the requirement for external excitation light, ECL achieves near-zero background signals, making it a powerful tool for imaging applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in ECL imaging. It begins by elucidating the fundamental mechanisms of ECL and emphasizing its inherent advantages for imaging applications. The key components of ECL imaging systems are outlined, with a detailed comparison of three primary microscope configurations, namely, upright, inverted, and side-view. Representative applications of ECL imaging are subsequently discussed, including visual biochemical detection, imaging of biological entities, single-particle analysis, and information encryption. Finally, we address current limitations of ECL imaging technology and propose potential solutions, highlighting promising directions for future development and broader applications.