Reactivity-Based Organic Theranostic Bioprobes

Area of Science:

• Organic Chemistry
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Conventional bioprobes rely on molecular recognition (lock-and-key), limiting detection of similar molecules.
• Reactivity-based bioprobes exploit intrinsic chemical differences for selective target detection in complex biological systems.
• There is a growing need for bioprobes with integrated diagnostic and therapeutic functionalities (theranostics).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in reactivity-based theranostic bioprobes.
• To discuss the design principles and applications of these novel bioprobes.
• To highlight the potential of "one-for-all" strategies using aggregation-induced emission (AIE) fluorogens.

Main Methods:

• Comparison of reactivity-based sensing with conventional lock-and-key mechanisms.
• Exploration of "all-in-one" versus "one-for-all" design strategies for multifunctional bioprobes.
• Engineering of AIE fluorogens for combined imaging and therapeutic capabilities (e.g., photodynamic therapy).

Main Results:

• Reactivity-based bioprobes enable detection of various analytes like free radicals and toxins.
• Engineered AIE fluorogens facilitate theranostic applications, including image-guided chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy.
• The "one-for-all" approach simplifies design and improves reproducibility compared to "all-in-one" strategies.

Conclusions:

• Reactivity-based organic theranostic bioprobes offer enhanced capabilities for biological and medical applications.
• Multifunctional AIE fluorogens are key to developing versatile theranostic platforms.
• Further research and interdisciplinary collaboration are crucial for clinical translation of these advanced bioprobes.