Recent advances in fluorescence-colorimetric sensor arrays and their applications in biomedical fields

Fluorescence colorimetric dual-mode sensor arrays have drawn significant attention in biomedical analysis. This is attributed to their remarkable advantages, such as high sensitivity, multi-parameter detection capability, and visible signal output. By integrating fluorescence sensing with colorimetric detection, these arrays enable multi-target detection in biological samples through changes in fluorescence intensity, ratiometric fluorescence, or color information. The continuous optimization of fluorescent nanomaterial-based probes has demonstrated their potential application in biological fluid detection, cancer biomarker analysis, metabolic/disease monitoring, and infectious disease screening. Furthermore, the integration of microfluidic technology, flexible electronics, and image analysis into the fluorescence-colorimetric sensor arrays (FCSAs) has enhanced the portability, sensitivity, and data-processing capabilities of the sensor arrays. This endows them with considerable potential for point-of-care testing (POCT) and telemedicine applications. This review summarizes the representative achievements of FCSAs over the past three years. First, the principles of array design are outlined, encompassing the sensing mechanism, methods for array construction, and data processing strategies. Then, the innovations and applications of FCSAs are highlighted for biomarker analysis and disease diagnosis. Finally, the challenges and future advances of this technology in biomedical fields are discussed.