Sample Preparation with Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIPs)

The first report of using molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) as a selective sorbent in sample preparation was in 1994 for the solid-phase extraction (SPE) cleanup of urine to analyze pentamidine. Now, 30 years later, the applications for MIPs are widespread. The molecular recognition abilities of these stable polymers offer high selectivity for a sample preparation method. MIP synthesis is inexpensive, easy, and a clear alternative to the use of natural receptors. Sample preparation techniques using MIPs are broad. Beyond SPE, MIPs are also used in microextraction, matrix solid-phase dispersion, coated fibers, monoliths, and stir bar sorptive extraction, to name a few. This article will describe the current highlights of using MIPs in sample preparation.