Fluorescent monomers: "bricks" that make a molecularly imprinted polymer "bright"

Area of Science:

• Polymer Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are established recognition materials for separation and enrichment.
• Their robustness and adaptability make them suitable for sensing applications, especially with integrated active elements.
• Fluorescent MIPs, utilizing fluorescent monomers, represent a highly developed approach in this field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state of fluorescent molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) for sensing applications.
• To discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using fluorescent dyes and probes as monomers within MIPs.
• To analyze molecular interactions, signaling mechanisms, and various realized approaches in fluorescent MIP development.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on fluorescent MIPs.
• Discussion of photophysical processes relevant to fluorescence response in polymer matrices.
• Analysis of different imprinting techniques (e.g., covalent imprinting, postmodification) and materials (e.g., conjugated polymers).

Main Results:

• Fluorescent MIPs offer a promising avenue for sensor development due to integrated recognition and signaling.
• Various molecular interactions and signaling modes can be employed for template complexation and fluorescence modulation.
• Different strategies, including FRET and conjugated polymers, have been successfully implemented.

Conclusions:

• Fluorescent MIPs are highly adaptable for sensor realization, with integrated fluorescent monomers offering significant advantages.
• Understanding photophysical processes is crucial for optimizing fluorescence response within the constrained polymer matrix.
• The reviewed approaches provide a foundation for designing advanced MIP-based fluorescent sensors.