Advancing biomedical applications of polyoxometalate-based metal–organic frameworks: from design to therapeutic potential

Abstract

Polyoxometalate-based metal–organic frameworks (POMOFs) are novel materials composed of polyoxometalates (POMs) and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), which are widely used in biomedical research. Synthesis strategies for POMOF materials predominantly utilise liquid-phase self-assembly via diverse methodologies and solid-phase self-assembly facilitated by mechanical grinding. Additionally, POMOF materials can be modified to enhance their efficacy through enhancements in catalytic activity and structural refinement. This review article summarises the common design, synthesis, and modification strategies of POMOF materials suitable for biomedical applications. The review further elucidates the unique properties of POMOF materials, regulatability, stability, and multifunctionality, which distinctly exceed those of other biomedical materials. Subsequently, the review is centred on applying POMOF biosensors classified by colourimetric and electrochemical methods and their multiple roles in biomedical therapy fields. Finally, we introduce the challenges faced by POMOFs in terms of synthesis methods and, using conditions, propose potential solutions and summarise the future development potential of POMOFs in the field of biomedical detection and therapy.