Recent Advances in Biosensors Based on Hybridization Chain Reaction and Silver Nanoclusters.

Hybridization chain reaction (HCR) and DNA‐templated silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) have emerged as powerful tools in biosensing. HCR enables cascade amplification through programmable DNA interactions, while DNA‐AgNCs serve as transducing units with unique fluorogenic and electrochemical properties. Integrating these components into a hybrid sensor could significantly enhance sensing capabilities across various fields. Nonetheless, limited studies and the lack of systematic guidelines for HCR‐AgNCs systems have hindered research progress, despite their potential. This review aims to address this gap by providing a comprehensive overview of HCR‐AgNCs biosensors, facilitating further innovation in this field. The working principles, performance factors, and complementary features are discussed. Thereafter, reported HCR‐AgNCs studies are assessed, emphasizing their distinct sensing mechanisms (e.g., fluorogenic, electrochemical), applications across various fields, and challenges in adopting the hybrid sensors. Drawing from the experience developing multiple HCR‐AgNCs sensors, insights and guidelines for designing and developing HCR‐AgNCs systems are provided for future researchers. Finally, prospective directions in HCR‐AgNCs research, including multiplex assays and integration with emerging technologies, are explored to guide future advancements. The synergistic combination of HCR and AgNCs as a hybrid biosensor holds promise for addressing pressing challenges in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and beyond, paving the way for next‐generation biosensing technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]