Advances in electrochemical aptasensors and immunosensors for detection of bacterial pathogens in food

Abstract The bacterial pathogens are among main contaminants of food and drinking water. Therefore, development of their fast and sensitive detection is among main priorities in protection of health and for providing safe products at the market. The conventional methods of detection are rather laborious, require qualified staff and usually contain of several steps including preconcentration. Some bacterial species are of zero tolerance; therefore, their detection at the level of 1 colony forming units (CFU) in mL is desirable. The biosensors are good alternative to the common laboratory tests. Among them the immuno- and aptamer- based electrochemical sensors are of increased interest. This review analyses the current trends in development of immuno- and aptasensors for various foodborne pathogens. The sensor design and basic electrochemical methods of detection are explained together with existing conventional methods of bacteria detection. The sensitivity of biosensor, possibility of regeneration and application in food and drinking water samples are presented. The comparative analysis of the properties of immunosensors and aptasensors is performed together with future perspectives.