Molecularly imprinted polymers for the detection of volatile biomarkers

In the field of cancer detection, the development of affordable, quick, and user-friendly sensors capable of detecting various cancer biomarkers, including those for lung cancer (LC), holds utmost significance. Sensors are expected to play a crucial role in the early-stage diagnosis of various diseases. Among the range of options, sensors emerge as particularly appealing for the diagnosis of various diseases, owing to their cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and promising analytical performance. There is growing interest in the application of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) as promising recognition elements in gas sensors. MIPs, as a leading technology for sensing analytes where no suitable bioreceptor exists, are commonly used in artificial sensing that can be applied in key fields like early disease diagnostics, based on the detection of volatile biomarkers. There is an extensive demand for early, non-invasive detection of various diseases and for the self-monitoring of health conditions. Detection of biomarkers in point-of-care mode remains challenging and is limited by various factors. Hence, breath analysis has received enormous attention in healthcare due to its relatively low cost, non-invasive sampling method, and rapid detection capabilities. The latest developments in MIP-based sensors and their utility in disease diagnosis through the detection of volatile biomarkers are comprehensively and critically evaluated in this review. Furthermore, the challenges and perspectives of MIP-based sensors are elaborated upon, with a view towards introduction to the market and successful commercialization.