Polyphenolic antioxidant analysis using metal organic Frameworks: Theoretical foundations and practical applications

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are crystalline materials whose synthesis depends on the association between organic linkers and metal ions and/or metal clusters. MOFs have unique properties, including impressive porosity and easy modification of their surface structure. Owing to these distinctive characteristics, MOFs are extensively used in sensing and extraction applications. Polyphenolic molecules, which have distinct and potent antioxidant properties, can operate as efficient radical scavengers, reducing their harmful effects on the body. This explains the growing interest in polyphenolic compounds of natural origin and the need for sensitive analytical methods to determine these antioxidants in cosmetics, dyes, pesticides, food, beverages, and pharmaceutical matrices. In this review, the synthesis and characterization of MOFs for the application in chemical sensing and the analysis of polyphenolic antioxidants in different matrices are discussed in more details. Challenges and limitations associated with the use of MOFs for chemical sensing and the analysis of polyphenolic antioxidants such as sensitivity, selectivity, sample preparation, and scalability are discussed as well.