Abstract

Label-free detection of molecules and particles based on native fluorescence excited at the ultraviolet (UV) region of the electromagnetic spectrum shows great potential
for molecular analysis in life sciences. It offers simple, low-cost, and fast methods for sensitive detection of important biological analytes in nature forms. This article reviews the most significant research on label-free native fluorescence detection in analytical chemistry and biochemistry, with particular focus on the instrumental requirements and applications that cover papers published to the beginning of 2009. Future development
directions for label-free optical biosensors based on native fluorescence are discussed.