Electrochemiluminescence of tris(2,2′-bipyridyl)ruthenium and its applications in bioanalysis: a review

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) of tris(2,2`-bipyridyl) ruthenium(II) [Ru(bpy)(3)(2+)] is an active research area and includes the synthesis of ECL-active materials, mechanistic studies and broad applications. Extensive research has been focused on this area, due to its scientific and practical importance. In this mini-review we focus on the bio-related applications of ECL. After a brief introduction to Ru(bpy)(3)(2+) ECL and its mechanisms, its application in constructing an effective bioassay is discussed in detail. Three types of ECL assay are covered: DNA, immunoassay and functional nucleic acid sensors. Finally, future directions for these assays are discussed. Copyright (c) 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.