An Overview of MIPs as Artificial Antibodies: Fundamentals and Various Applications

Chemical antibody mimics known as molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are created by nano-moulding a synthetic polymer with the desired target’s three-dimensional (3D) form and chemical properties. As a result, they have exceptional molecular recognition cavities that allow them to engage the target molecule, frequently with an affinity and a specificity comparable to that of antigen–antibody interactions. The molecular imprinting technique is a potent method for developing synthetic materials with antibody-like molecular recognition. Traditional MIPs are primarily single-function materials produced utilizing techniques created between the 1970s and 2000s, which significantly limits their potential in comparison to naturally occurring, versatile materials. The multifunctionality of proteins that are produced through biosynthesis, in contrast, is the result of intricate production procedures, such as post-translational modifications. Post-imprinting modifications (PIMs) make it possible to site-specifically introduce new functionalities into molecularly imprinted cavities. This method involves chemically altering the monomer residues within the cavities and producing MIPs with characteristics, such as on/off binding activity switching, fluorescence signalling, photo-responsiveness, and precisely controlled binding properties. Molecular recognition—a property shared by numerous molecules, including antibodies, aptamers, and MIPs—has a wide range of potential uses in medical and pharmaceutical research, diagnostics, theranostics, therapy, and drug delivery. As a result, numerous research studies have been conducted to examine the usefulness of MIPs in related applications. When compared to traditional antibodies, MIPs offer a number of benefits, including increased adaptability and affordability. With a focus on novel polymer materials, this chapter offers a clear overview of the main ideas behind molecular imprinting technology (MIT), including initiators, cross-linking agents, functional monomers, template molecules, and characterization methods.