Advances in polarization-driven photoelectrochemical bioanalysis: a comprehensive review

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) bioanalysis has emerged as a highly promising and versatile detection platform, offering exceptional sensitivity, superior selectivity, rapid response, and cost-effectiveness. However, the inherent limitation of rapid charge carrier recombination in photoactive materials severely impedes its overall detection performance. This review introduces polarization engineering as a groundbreaking solution to this challenge, demonstrating its efficacy in suppressing carrier recombination through the generation of a polarization-induced electric field. We systematically explore the pivotal role of polarization in advancing PEC biosensing paradigms, with particular emphasis on: (1) innovative design and synthesis protocols for advanced polarization materials (encompassing ferroelectric, piezoelectric, pyroelectric, macroscopic, and spin polarization systems); (2) the functions of polarization in enhancing carrier separation; and (3) applications of polarization in PEC bioanalysis. Furthermore, the article delineates the underlying mechanisms of polarization-enhanced PEC responses, offers a forward-looking perspective on the future development of polarization engineering in PEC bioanalysis, and provides valuable insights for researchers in the field.