Dummy template molecularly imprinted polymer-based sensors in analytical and bioanalytical applications

Molecular imprinting technology (MIT) is a method for the preparation of artificial receptors for a certain target molecule derived from synthetic polymers. The technique used in synthesizing the molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) results in the development of cavities that are properly matched to the exact structure, sizes, and functional groups of the targeted molecule. As a result, these MIPs are capable of specifically identifying the target molecules. In recent decades, it has been widely employed across various fields such as chromatography, antibody and receptor mimetics, solid-phase extraction, biosensors, and others. However, MIPs faced restrictions in selecting the template, mostly because of the insufficient safety and inadequate stability of the compound, making experimental procedures challenging. Furthermore, when utilizing the target analyte as the template, there is a possibility of template leakage or incomplete removal, leading to potential interference with the experimental outcomes. Consequently, the template molecule for MIT may not always be acceptable for direct utilization. The advent of the MIT dummy template offers a convenient and practical solution to prevent these scenarios. As a result, the dummy MIT (DMIT) has emerged as a promising approach. In this review, the roles of DMIT in sensing and biosensing are discussed.