Magnetic molecular imprinted polymers as a tool for isolation and purification of biological samples

Technology of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP) has become very popular in recent decades. MIPs are primarily used in medical diagnostics, chromatographic separation and solid phase extraction (SPE); also as sensors and catalysts. In recent years there have been reported benefits of combining molecular imprinted polymers with additional features, e.g. magnetic properties, through the build-up of this type of material on magnetite particles (Magnetic Molecularly Imprinted Polymer – MMIP). This method produces a multifunctional material which has high selectivity and the ability to isolate the analyte from biological and environmental samples, allowing effective purification from such interferents as proteins and fats. This developing branch of new materials for the preparation and purification of complex sample matrices is an interesting alternative to materials routinely used to date, particularly with regard to the immunosorbents. This paper summarizes recent reports regarding MMIP preparation and their application for purification and isolation of compounds from biological matrices.