A mini review on biosensor advancements-emphasis on quantum dots

Abstract

The biosensor is an analytical device that targets the macromolecules and small molecules using a biological recognition system and later converts it into a measurable signal using a transducer. These biosensors are broadly used in various domains, enhancing the existing form and making it more specific for several applications. Presently, it is used for quantifying and detecting the biological-based components in the fields of forensics, medicine, food quality, pharmaceutical and environmental tracking, etc. These biosensors are cost-effective and produce safe and assured treatment for patients by examining the contagious disease biomarkers in the early stage without any side effects. This review has discussed the five essential components of biosensors and the upgraded form of these biosensors. Depending on the detection method, biosensors were classified into different types. Amongst various types, electrochemical and optical biosensors have more sensitivity and are widely used, and are briefly discussed here. Nanomaterials play a significant role in modern medical devices due to their excellent selectivity, high surface-to-volume ratio, strong chemical activity, increased specificity, and sensitivity that pave the way for more discoveries. Several nanomaterial-based biosensors are already on the market. This review mainly focuses on the fabrication methods of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles for sensing applications.

Keywords

• Biosensors
• Electrochemical biosensor
• Optical biosensor
• Acoustic biosensor
• Nanomaterials-based biosensor