Molecularly Imprinted Nanomaterial-Based Highly Sensitive and Selective Medical Devices

Abstract

Molecular imprinting provides a unique opportunity for the creation of three-dimensional cavities with tailored recognition properties. Over the past decade, the molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) field has expanded considerably across a variety of disciplines, leading to novel approaches and many potential applications. The application of the imprinting approach to novel polymeric formats offers new insights and attractive methods for the preparation of synthetic receptors. In particular, MIP technology provides a means for ready access to nanostructured polymeric materials of predetermined selectivity. The versatility of the technique has attracted the attention of many workers for developing nanomaterials, with biological or biomimetic properties, for ultimate use in therapeutics and medical devices. The state-of-the art of ÌÉÑ-based nanomaterials may set a new trend in the development of chemical sensors, and that will have a big impact on the future of nanoscience. In fact, the exotic properties of nanostructured materials, such as high surface/volume ratio, functionalization ability, favorable electronic and thermal features, and electrocatalytic characteristics have paved the way of designing many fabrication strategies for sensors and biosensors. In this monograph, we present a useful guide to all researchers who are interested in exploiting MIP technology for potential applications in the development of nanostructured sensors as highly sensitive and selective medical devices. © 2012 Scrivener Publishing LLC.