Abstract: Fluorescent hydrogel is a new type of polymer composite with three-dimensional cross-linked networks and fluorescence emission properties. The fluorescence intensity or fluorescence emission color can change under the stimulation of external target analytes. Hence, fluorescent hydrogel can serve as an essential tool for the quantitative detection of target analyte concentration, while also offering good fluorescence stability and detection portability. In recent years, researchers have developed various fluorescent hydrogel sensing probes based on different types of response mechanisms, and have applied them in the detection of various types of target analytes. The design of traditional fluorescent hydrogel sensors is typically based on a highly specific recognition function between the target analytes and fluorescent material inside the hydrogel, which requires a high one-to-one correspondence between the target analytes and fluorescent material, limiting the detection range of such fluorescent hydrogel sensors. However, fluorescent hydrogels based on indirect interaction can introduce an intermediate medium as a bridge to further achieve specific recognition and response to various target analytes. This cascade response to target analytes overcomes the limitations of conventional fluorescent hydrogel sensors. Based on the signal response mechanisms involved in the fabrication of fluorescent hydrogel sensing systems, the fluorescent hydrogel sensors are classified into three major categories in this paper: direct response, competitive response, and non-competitive response. This paper provides important insights for the fabrication of new fluorescent hydrogel sensors. Finally, the prospects and challenges associated with fluorescent hydrogel sensors in the field of detection are summarized and discussed.
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