Molecularly imprinted polymer-based materials for biomedical applications

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are custom-made cross-linked bioinspired materials with selective and specific recognition properties. They are a substitute for antibodies and have advantages over biomolecules such as stronger chemical and physical stability, better availability, simpler integration in industrial processes, and reduced cost. Due to their unique recognition properties, MIP-based materials have been used for many applications over the last two decades. This chapter covers the latest advances in MIPs in biomedical applications, including biosensors, drug release systems, stimuli-responsive systems, artificial receptors, antibodies, enzymes, cell imaging, scaffold design, bioseparation, tissue engineering applications, and medical treatment.