Recent Advances in Electrochemiluminescence-Based Single-Cell Analysis

In recent years, the increasing demand for highly sensitive tracking of life processes has promoted scientists to explore advanced analytical techniques. Developing universal analytical methods to detect individual differences and temporal changes among cells is crucial for fundamental study and clinical applications. Among existing technologies, the electrochemiluminescence (ECL) approach has attracted attention for various purposes, such as detecting biomolecules, monitoring cellular activities, imaging subcellular structures, and evaluating cell viability. ECL analysis and imaging provide high sensitivity, low background noise, and spatiotemporal resolution for single-cell analysis. In this review, we explore the evolution of ECL technology in cell analysis and emphasize single-cell assays, including detecting released cellular molecules and surface biomarkers, analysing intracellular components, imaging cell membranes, and cell adhesion. We first briefly introduce the mechanism and apparatus for ECL-based single-cell analysis and, subsequently, focus on four aspects of research related to single-cell analysis and imaging. Furthermore, the latest advances in ECL-driven photodynamic therapy and super-resolution ECL microscopy are also discussed. Finally, we discuss the current obstacles and prospects for ECL single-cell analysis.

Automated summary

In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for advanced analytical techniques in order to track life processes with high sensitivity. Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) analysis has emerged as a promising approach for various purposes, such as biomolecule detection, cellular activity monitoring, subcellular imaging, and cell viability evaluation. ECL analysis and imaging provide high sensitivity, low background noise, and spatiotemporal resolution for single-cell analysis. This review explores the evolution of ECL technology in cell analysis and emphasizes single-cell assays, including the detection of cellular molecules and biomarkers, analysis of intracellular components, imaging of cell membranes, and cell adhesion. The latest advances in ECL-driven photodynamic therapy and super-resolution ECL microscopy are also discussed, along with the current obstacles and prospects for ECL single-cell analysis.