Synthesis, Crystallographic Studies and Sensing Applications of Amide-Functionalized Luminescent MOFs: A Review

Luminescent metal–organic frameworks (LMOFs), a subclass of MOFs integrating metal clusters with organic linkers, exhibit intrinsic photoluminescence alongside high porosity and structural tunability. Compared to conventional MOFs, LMOFs offer superior photo stability, rapid response, and strong host–guest interactions, making them ideal for sensing applications. Functionalization with amide groups via pre- or post-synthetic modification introduces specific binding sites that enhance selectivity toward a diverse range of analytes, including metal ions, anions, biomolecules, explosives, gases, and small solvent molecules. This review summarizes recent advances in the synthesis and sensing performance of amide-functionalized LMOFs.