Hybrid molecularly imprinted nanomaterials for therapy and diagnostics

Hybrid molecularly imprinted polymers combine features of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) and other functional components such as inorganic materials (e.g., nanoparticles), which provides enhanced selectivity, stability, and reactivity. This combination makes it possible to integrate benefits of MIPs (specific binding of a molecular template) with those of other materials such as high surface area, stability, and catalytic activity. Recent advances in nanotechnology have improved the production of new hybrid molecularly imprinted polymers, which resulted in rapid growth of the use of hybrid MIPs in biomedicine. Lately, the number of publications (including reviews) devoted to both classic and hybrid MIPs has been constantly increasing; however, none of the publications focuses on the preparation and use of hybrid MIPs for medicine and their possible contribution to this field. This review presents a detailed description of the latest research advances in molecular imprinting technology with the use of nanomaterials in diagnostics, therapeutics, and theranostics. The goal of the review is to provide a comprehensive picture of the diversity of currently available hybrid systems for molecular recognition and their applications in biomedicine. The bibliography includes 252 references.