A review for organic probes for chemo/bio-sensors: from small molecules to supramolecular structures

Abstract

This review comprehensively examines organic-based probes used in chemosensors and biosensors, focusing on their chemical and crystal structures and their effects on performance. It emphasizes the significant role of organic molecules used as probes, which often serve as the primary sources of optical properties such as fluorescence emission in metal complex or supramolecules such as metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) via the antenna effect. The review's scope covers a wide range of organic-containing materials, from fundamental small organic molecules to complex supramolecular structures, polymers, MOFs, and covalent organic frameworks (COFs). The inclusion of organic components notably enhances the performance of these systems; e.g. low detection limit and provides high sensitivity and selectivity. Ultimately, these materials offer multifunctionality, acting as effective probes and preconcentration materials, adsorbents, and pseudo-stationary phases. The integration of materials science, sustainable design, and advanced data analytics is shaping the next generation of high-performance, innovative, and ecologically friendly sensors and biosensors. Continuous interdisciplinary collaboration among chemists, engineers, biologists, computer scientists, and data scientists will be essential to transform these concepts into viable, scalable solutions that improve human health, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability.