A review of point-of-care (POC) and lab-on-chip (LOC) approaches in molecularly imprinted polymer-based electrochemical sensors for biomedical applications

Abstract

Background

In terms of analytical applications, researchers aim to design and develop sensitive, selective, and effective sensors that can be used for diagnostic purposes and disease monitoring. Point-of-care (POC) and lab-on-a-chip (LOC) systems stand out as transformative systems that meet expectations and achieve goals from both perspectives. POC devices produce reliable results quickly, facilitating patient-friendly diagnostics. LOC technology, a combination of biosensors, electronics, optics, and microfluidics, directly reflects the progress in downsizing analytical techniques.

Results

Electrochemical sensors have a lot of potential for use in POC and LOC systems because of their high sensitivity, accuracy, specificity, low detection limits, downsizing possibilities, affordability, and ease of use. Because of their enhanced chemical and physical stability and their chemically modifiable micro- and nanoscale characteristics, molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are particularly interesting for use as recognition components in POC and LOC applications. MIP-based sensors have great promise in being integrated with POC and LOC devices for application in biomedical analysis.

Significance

This review study discusses thoroughly how MIP-based electrochemical sensors can support the expanding field of POC/LOC diagnostics through these cutting-edge technologies. The novelty of this review study is that it specifically addresses the integration of electrochemical MIP sensors into both POC and LOC systems in terms of biomedical applications. It focuses only on the potential of MIP-based electrochemical sensors and brings together studies integrated into POC and LOC platforms.