Engineering metal-organic frameworks for point-of-care biosensors: from synthesis to sensing applications

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted considerable interest in developing advanced sensing systems because of their unique optical and electrochemical characteristics. Thanks to their programmable design and fast response, these sensing platforms allow for simple and efficient detection of metal ions, biomolecules, pesticides, and antibiotics in point-of-care testing. In this review, we highlight the latest design and synthesis strategies for the state-of-the-art advancement of MOF-based sensing platforms, focusing on their structural engineering and functionalization in sensing strategies. Furthermore, we comprehensively discuss the applications of MOF-based sensors with portable readout methods in the practical application. The challenges and future prospects of MOF-based sensors in real-world diagnostic applications are also explored, underscoring their role in the development sensing platform. By bridging the gap between MOF nanomaterials and detection platforms, this review aims to provide insights into the transformative potential of MOFs in advancing detection technologies, environmental protection, food safety monitoring, and disease diagnostics.