Sequence-activated chemiluminescence probes: programmable illumination for high-contrast in vivo sensing and imaging

Sequence-activated chemiluminescence (CL) technique offers a unique approach to detecting specific biomolecules or cellular events with high sensitivity and spatial resolution. The fundamental principle behind sequence-activated CL probes involves tailoring highly-controllable CL signals in response to specific sequences or events of interest, thus enabling high-contrast signals under complex physiological conditions. This sequential activation could be triggered by enzymes, reactive oxygen species (ROS), biothiols or changes in the microenvironment. These unique sequence-activated CL probes bestow several advantages, including minimal background, deep-tissue penetration, and the ability of non-invasive or minimally invasive detection. The sequence-activated CL techniques represent a significant advancement in molecular imaging and diagnostics. In this mini-review, we focus on the latest developments in sequential CL probes, addressing the technical challenges and discussing the future trajectory by harnessing CL signaling and molecular recognition.