Imagine a single molecule as a laboratory! This review explores the concept of a lab-on-a-molecule, highlighting its evolution from a simple logic gate to a sophisticated tool for multi-analyte sensing. Focusing on molecules that can detect multiple analytes using fluorescence and other techniques, this article discusses their relevance in molecular logic and multi-analyte sensing. The review examines various molecular designs and sensing mechanisms, illustrating their potential in analytical chemistry and biomedical applications. It evaluates recent progress in the field. The review emphasizes challenges and offers suggestions for advancing research, particularly for creating more complex and efficient lab-on-a-molecule systems. This perspective is critical for researchers aiming to push the frontiers of molecular sensing to the next level. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of current trends and challenges.
Published in _Frontiers in Chemistry_, this review aligns with the journal's focus on cutting-edge advancements in chemical research. By exploring lab-on-a-molecule technology and multi-analyte sensing, this article fits within the journal's scope of innovative chemical methodologies and their applications.