Recent Advances of Point-of-Care Devices Integrated with Molecularly Imprinted Polymers-Based Biosensors: From Biomolecule Sensing Design to Intraoral Fluid Testing

Recent developments of point-of-care testing (POCT) and in vitro diagnostic medical devices have provided analytical capabilities and reliable diagnostic results for rapid access at or near the patient's location. Nevertheless, the challenges of reliable diagnosis still remain an important factor in actual clinical trials before on-site medical treatment and making clinical decisions. New classes of POCT devices depict precise diagnostic technologies that can detect biomarkers in biofluids such as sweat, tears, saliva or urine. The introduction of a novel molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) system as an artificial bioreceptor for the POCT devices could be one of the emerging candidates to improve the analytical performance along with physicochemical stability when used in harsh environments. Here, we review the potential availability of MIP-based biorecognition systems as custom artificial receptors with high selectivity and chemical affinity for specific molecules. Further developments to the progress of advanced MIP technology for biomolecule recognition are introduced. Finally, to improve the POCT-based diagnostic system, we summarized the perspectives for high expandability to MIP-based periodontal diagnosis and the future directions of MIP-based biosensors as a wearable format.

Automated summary

The recent advancements in point-of-care testing (POCT) and in vitro diagnostic medical devices have allowed for rapid access to analytical capabilities and reliable diagnostic results near or at the patient's location. However, reliable diagnosis remains a challenge in actual clinical trials and making clinical decisions. The introduction of novel molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) systems as artificial bioreceptors for POCT devices has the potential to improve the analytical performance and stability in harsh environments. This review explores the potential use of MIP-based biorecognition systems as custom artificial receptors with high selectivity and chemical affinity for specific molecules. Further developments and perspectives for high expandability in MIP-based periodontal diagnosis and wearable MIP-based biosensors are discussed.