Shining light on biosensors: Chemiluminescence and bioluminescence in enabling technologies

Abstract

Chemiluminescence (CL) and bioluminescence (BL) are both fascinating natural phenomena involving the emission of light by a chemical reaction without the need for an excitation source. Both CL and BL have been used extensively in research and technology development and have become valuable tools in fields ranging from chemistry to medicine and beyond. Specifically, they offer unique advantages in the design of highly sensitive and specific detection probes for biosensors. In the CL field, novel probe designs, integration of nanomaterials, and synthetic strategies have led to enhanced sensitivity, selectivity, and versatility in biosensor applications. This in combination with portable microfluidic technologies has facilitated the detection and quantification of biomolecules, metabolites, pathogens, and environmental pollutants with high accuracy and low cost. Similarly, the exploration of bioluminescent proteins has led to the engineering of genetically encoded bioluminescent probes enabling the development of biosensors, molecular diagnostics methods, and real-time imaging and detection within living systems. Further, the development of bioluminescent reporter assays and biosensors has shown application in high-throughput screening, drug discovery, and biological mechanistic studies. The integration of BL and CL technologies into point-of-care devices has found applications in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and food safety. This review highlights recent advancements in both CL and BL technologies, mainly focusing on their implications in biosensor development.