Advancements in nanosensors using plastic antibodies.

Biosensors possess recognition elements that bind to target molecules which lead to detectable signals. Incorporation of noble metal nanomaterials into biosensors allows for rapid and simple biomolecule detection. Herein, recent developments in affinity nanosensors will be discussed. These sensors often include naturally occurring recognition elements such as antibodies and DNA. As samples become more complex, new recognition elements are sought. For instance, plastic antibodies provide alternative and more environmentally stable recognition elements than traditional antibodies. Molecular imprinted polymers, a class of plastic antibodies, promote biomolecule recognition and detection. The incorporation of noble metal nanomaterials into molecular imprinted polymer biosensors for real world applications will be explored. Further improvements in the design of artificial recognition agents are envisioned to facilitate new methods for complex biological and chemical analyses.