Recent Advances in Molecularly Imprinted Polymer-Based Electrochemical Sensors for Ascorbic Acid Detection

Abstract

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid (AA), is a water-soluble vitamin widely recognized for its antioxidant properties and is essential for collagen synthesis, immune function, neurotransmitter production, and protection against oxidative stress. Physiological AA concentrations in healthy human plasma typically range from 30 to 90 µM, whereas levels below 11 µM indicate severe deficiency (scurvy). Detecting AA is important in various fields, such as food monitoring and disease management. The demand for precise, efficient, and sensitive AA detection methods has driven significant advances in sensor technology. Numerous analytical techniques, including spectroscopy, HPLC, and electroanalytical methods, are used to identify and quantify AA. Among these, molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-based electrochemical sensors have emerged as important tools due to their high selectivity, sensitivity, chemical stability, low cost, and reusability. This review comprehensively discusses recent advances in MIP-based electrochemical sensors for selective, high-performance AA detection, highlighting the role of conductive nanomaterials in enhancing sensor performance. Finally, current challenges, including the complexity of the imprinting process, are discussed, along with future perspectives involving smart sensing technologies, portable devices, and real-time monitoring for clinical, food, and environmental applications.