High-sensitivity molecular recognition with light-induced polymerization

A novel strategy for enhanced molecular recognition that utilized standard complexation strategies in combination with light-induced, or photo-, polymerization was recently demonstrated. Creative and rational materials design aided in the development of macroinitiators that produce a specific binding event, which is then amplified through photo-initation and chain polymerization. This polymerization-based amplification system produced a positive result that was visibly recognizable with amounts as low as 1000 molecules.