Zwitterions modified biosensors improve detection performance in complex food matrices

Biosensors have been proven to be crucial in the rapid detection of food. However, food is rich in various small molecules such as proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates, which can occupy the binding sites on the biosensor's surface, significantly diminishing its detection performance. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a method that can enhance the detection performance of biosensors in complex food matrices without requiring complex pretreatment processes. Zwitterions, as a type of anti-fouling material, have gained significant attention because of their ability to enhance biosensor detection performance in complex matrices. This review provides a detailed introduction to the design and anti-fouling principles of zwitterionic polymers, surface polymerization and immobilization, and the applications of zwitterionic polymers in rapid detection, aiming to provide new insights and methods for improving the detection performance of biosensors in complex matrices. In an environment where biosensors are deployed for detection, proper pH balance and ionic strength are essential prerequisites for achieving optimal performance. Considering that zwitterions respond to both pH and salt levels, striking a balance between noise reduction and sensitization is particularly important. In addition, we conducted a detailed analysis on the impact of the coating thickness of zwitterionic polymers on the detection performance of biosensors. [Display omitted] •The structural design of zwitterionic polymers and their immobilization strategies for biosensors are reviewed.•The factors affecting the pH and salt response of zwitterions are proposed.•The anti-fouling mechanism of zwitterions are discussed.•Noting the research progress on zwitterions-modified biosensors are proposed.•The advantages and disadvantages of zwitterions are summarized, and the trends in zwitterions-modified biosensors are prospected.