Advances in single-molecule fluorescent nanosensors.

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology and Nanoscience
• Biosensing and Diagnostics
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Single-molecule detection offers ultimate sensitivity, characterized by simplicity, rapidity, low sample consumption, and high signal-to-noise ratio.
• Functional nanomaterials with unique properties have been synthesized, driving innovation in biosensor development.
• Integrating single-molecule detection with nanomaterials enables novel single-molecule fluorescent nanosensors with enhanced performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advances in single-molecule fluorescent nanosensors constructed using novel nanomaterials from 2011-2020.
• To discuss strategies, features, and applications of these nanosensors in detecting various biomolecules and entities.
• To highlight future directions and challenges in the field of single-molecule fluorescent nanosensors.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of single-molecule fluorescent nanosensors developed using quantum dots, gold nanoparticles, upconversion nanoparticles, fluorescent conjugated polymer nanoparticles, nanosheets, and magnetic nanoparticles.
• Analysis of sensor strategies, material properties, and performance metrics.
• Examination of application data for detecting microRNAs, DNAs, enzymes, proteins, viruses, and live cells.

Main Results:

• Significant progress in the design and application of diverse nanomaterial-based single-molecule fluorescent nanosensors over the past decade.
• Demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity in detecting a wide range of biological targets, from small molecules to whole cells.
• Successful integration of nanomaterials has led to improved sensor performance, enabling new diagnostic capabilities.

Conclusions:

• Single-molecule fluorescent nanosensors represent a powerful tool for high-sensitivity biosensing, with broad applications in diagnostics and research.
• Continued development of novel nanomaterials and sensing strategies will further enhance the capabilities and utility of these nanosensors.
• Addressing challenges in standardization, multiplexing, and in vivo applications is crucial for future advancements.