Affinity separations on molecularly imprinted polymers with special emphasis on solid-phase extraction

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are tailor-made synthetic materials possessing specific cavities designed for a target molecule. They may constitute stationary phases for separation techniques that involve a retention mechanism based on molecular recognition. The physical and chemical properties of MIPs directly result from the procedure used for their synthesis, which is normally adapted to the application in question. This review describes the potential of MIPs in affinity chromatography, mainly for chiral separation using different techniques such as liquid chromatography or capillary electrochromatography. The great potential of MIPs as selective sorbents for solid-phase extraction of target analytes from complex matrices is particularly highlighted.