Signal amplification strategies in electrochemiluminescence biosensors

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) has attracted widespread attention in various analytical fields, due to its remarkable potential, such as high sensitivity, wide dynamic range and excellent controllability. Taking advantages of the selectivity of biorecognition elements and the high sensitivity of ECL technology, ECL biosensors serve as a powerful analytical device for the ultrasensitive detection of biomolecules. Over the past years, many efforts have been done to improve the sensitivity of ECL biosensors and develop new applications. In this review, different signal amplification strategies in the field of ECL bio-analysis, including electron transfer and energy transfer-based amplification, DNA technology-based amplification, nanomaterials-based amplification and other amplification strategies have been summarized and discussed systematically. In addition, future perspectives and current challenges in signal amplification of ECL biosensors are also outlined.