Design and Application of Conjugated Polymer Nanomaterials for Detection and Inactivation of Pathogenic Microbes

Infectious deaths due to drug resistance of pathogens caused by the abuse of antibiotics have seriously endangered public health in the world. Therefore, it is urgent to develop diversified methods for rapid detection of pathogens and antimicrobial drugs that are not prone to develop resistance. Conjugated polymers (CPs) are macromolecular compounds composed of many luminescent units through covalent bond. They have high molar extinction coefficient and strong light absorption capacity. In addition, they have good photo stability and excellent biocompatibility. In recent years, conjugated polymer nanomaterials (CPNs) have stimulated the research enthusiasm of many researchers because of the materials' small size, high fluorescence intensity, and easy modification. This article reviews the recent research progress of conjugated polymer nanomaterials in the detection and killing of pathogenic microbes.