Advancing biological investigations using portable sensors for detection of sensitive samples

Heliyon. 2023 Nov 22;9(12):e22679. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22679. eCollection 2023 Dec.

Abstract

Portable biosensors are emerged as powerful diagnostic tools for analyzing intricately complex biological samples. These biosensors offer sensitive detection capabilities by utilizing biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, microbes or microbial products, antibodies, and enzymes. Their speed, accuracy, stability, specificity, and low cost make them indispensable in forensic investigations and criminal cases. Notably, portable biosensors have been developed to rapidly detect toxins, poisons, body fluids, and explosives; they have proven invaluable in forensic examinations of suspected samples, generating efficient results that enable effective and fair trials. One of the key advantages of portable biosensors is their ability to provide sensitive and non-destructive detection of forensic samples without requiring extensive sample preparation, thereby reducing the possibility of false results. This comprehensive review provides an overview of the current advancements in portable biosensors for the detection of sensitive materials, highlighting their significance in advancing investigations and enhancing sensitive sample detection capabilities.

Keywords: Environmental monitoring; Food analysis; Forensics science; Molecular diagnostics; Point-of-care-testing; Portable biosensors; Precision health.

Publication types

  • Review