Logical sensing with fluorescent molecular logic gates based on photoinduced electron transfer

The evolution of fluorescence sensing at the University of Malta is critically reviewed in the context of molecular logic-based computation. Photoinduced electron transfer (PET) is the showcased design principle. Redox-driven switching is highlighted alongside traditional acid-base and ion-binding phenomena. Cross-pollination with internal charge transfer (ICT) further affords intelligent molecules with interesting and enhanced properties. These are classified according to the sophistication of the logic function from one-, two- and three-input systems including the concepts of Pourbaix sensors, lab-on-a-molecules and polymer tagged logic beads. (C) 2020 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This article critically reviews the evolution of fluorescence sensing at the University of Malta in the context of molecular logic-based computation. It showcases the design principle of photoinduced electron transfer (PET) and discusses redox-driven switching alongside traditional acid-base and ion-binding phenomena. The cross-pollination with internal charge transfer (ICT) further provides intelligent molecules with interesting and enhanced properties.