A review of recent advances in chemiluminescence detection using nano-colloidal manganese(IV)

[Display omitted] •Review of chemiluminescence detection with colloidal manganese(IV).•New methods of preparation and analytical applications.•Greater insight into the selectivity of the chemiluminescence reagent.•The conventional formaldehyde enhancer can be replaced by ethanol. The application of ‘soluble’ (colloidal) manganese(IV) for chemiluminescence detection is reviewed, focussing on papers published since the last comprehensive review of the subject in 2008. Advances in this reagent system include: the on-line formation of manganese(IV); new insight into the light-producing pathway and selectivity of the reagent; its application to assess total antioxidants in plant derived samples and oxidative stress in biological fluids and tissues; and the replacement of the formaldehyde enhancer with ethanol.