Combining molecular recognition, optical detection, and chemometric analysis

The mammalian olfactory and gustatory systems have inspired an emergent area of molecular recognition, which utilizes arrays of semiselective sensors to create patterns to distinguish analytes. Pattern-based recognition, combined with chemometric analysis, has provided chemists the tools necessary to create sensing ensembles that far exceed our ability to rationally design and synthesize sensors for complex molecules. These differential sensing arrays have been used for several biological, environmental, and industrial applications, and are becoming increasingly relevant to real world problems. Herein, we will examine the progress that has been made through differential molecular recognition. We will also discuss the different array platforms that have been employed and provide a brief introduction to the most commonly used chemometric analytical methods.