Recent advances in the rational synthesis and sensing applications of metal-organic framework biocomposites

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a novel class of highly porous materials, coordinated by the self-assembly of inorganic metal-containing nodes and organic ligands. By virtue of the advantages of MOFs, like tunable pores, diverse functional sites, and large surface area, they have become a promising candidate to immobilize various biomolecules. On the other hand, the introduction of biomolecules including enzymes, nucleic acids, antibodies, peptides, and phages on the surface or in the cavity of MOFs enables the sensing application with enhanced sensitivity, specificity, and broad range of targets. The integration of biomolecules with MOFs generates MOF biocomposites with synergistic properties and functions, attracting the broad interests in the field of sensing applications. This review presents the recent progress on the rational synthesis and sensing applications of MOF biocomposites. First of all, we introduce the favorable properties of MOFs used in the preparation of biocomposites for sensing applications. Then, the synthesis strategies between the biomolecules and MOFs are summarized. Thirdly, MOF biocomposite-based sensors are comprehensively reviewed according to the types of the biomolecules. Finally, some significant prospects and further challenges in this field are discussed. (C) 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.