Metal-organic framework-based advanced sensing platforms for the detection of tetracycline in food and water samples

Tetracycline (TC) is an essential class of wide-spectrum antibiotics with one of the highest applications (e.g., bacterial infectious diseases and growth-promoting additives). However, TC can cause antibiotic resistance, allergic reactions, and other adverse effects in non-target organisms. Because of its recalcitrant nature, foods and water might be contaminated with trace quantities of TC. Owing to the complexity of food samples, the construction of selective and sensitive TC sensors has attracted considerable attention. Therefore, the focus of this review article is on the application of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for detecting TCs in food and water samples. Different detection methods of MOF-based TC sensors (e.g. optical, electrochemical, or colorimetric) are discussed. In addition, the approaches to enhance the sensor performance of MOF-based TC sensors (e.g., incorporation with other functional materials) is discussed. In the final section, the limitations of MOFs for the development of TC sensors and future prospects are discussed to help researchers of various realms develop effective and sensitive MOF-based TC sensors.