Recent advances in quantum dot-based electrochemiluminescence sensors

The performances of quantum dot (QD)-based electrochemiluminescence (ECL) sensors have attracted attention for analytical sensing with the potential to provide ultrasensitive and real-time analysis. QD-based ECL sensors have numerous advantages and offer unique platforms for ECL signal transduction. Therefore, we review the sensing mechanisms and applications of QDs-based ECL sensors and their recent advances in this paper. First, the synthetic methods of QDs are summarized and compared. Then, we discuss the critical sensing mechanisms and construction strategies used to incorporate QDs into ECL sensing systems, focusing on the advantages and limitations of different sensing methodologies and modification methods. This article also highlights recent advances in representative examples of QD-based ECL sensors, including ECL resonance energy transfer, multiplex immunoassays, and ratiometric sensors. Finally, the challenges and prospects in future directions are featured based on the current development of QD-based ECL sensors.