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Development of an Electrochemical DNA Biosensor to Detect a Foodborne Pathogen
Published on: June 3, 2018
A review of biosensing techniques for detection of trace carcinogen contamination in food products
Zhanming Li1, Yue Yu, Zhiliang Li
1Department of Biosystems Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
Abstract:
Carcinogen contaminations in the food chain, for example heavy metal ions, pesticides, acrylamide, and mycotoxins, have caused serious health problems. A major objective of food-safety research is the identification and prevention of exposure to these carcinogens, because of their impossible-to-reverse tumorigenic effects. However, carcinogen detection is difficult because of their trace-level presence in food. Thus, reliable and accurate separation and determination methods are essential to protect food safety and human health. This paper summarizes the state of the art in separation and determination methods for analyzing carcinogen contamination, especially the advances in biosensing methods. Furthermore, the application of promising technology including nanomaterials, imprinted polymers, and microdevices is detailed. Challenges and perspectives are also discussed.
Insights
Detecting trace carcinogens like heavy metals and pesticides in food is crucial for health. This review highlights advanced biosensing methods and technologies for accurate food safety analysis.
Area of Science:
- Food Safety and Toxicology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Carcinogen contamination (heavy metal ions, pesticides, acrylamide, mycotoxins) in food poses significant health risks.
- Tumorigenic effects of carcinogens are irreversible, necessitating early detection and prevention.
- Trace-level presence of carcinogens complicates accurate identification and quantification in food.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current separation and determination methods for analyzing carcinogen contamination in food.
- To highlight recent advancements in biosensing techniques for carcinogen detection.
- To discuss the application of emerging technologies like nanomaterials, imprinted polymers, and microdevices.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of separation and determination methods.
- Focus on biosensing approaches for carcinogen analysis.
- Exploration of novel technologies: nanomaterials, imprinted polymers, and microdevices.
Main Results:
- Biosensing methods offer promising advancements for sensitive and selective carcinogen detection.
- Nanomaterials, imprinted polymers, and microdevices show potential for improved analytical performance.
- Current methods face challenges in sensitivity, specificity, and real-world applicability.
Conclusions:
- Accurate and reliable methods for carcinogen detection are essential for safeguarding food safety and public health.
- Continued research and development in biosensing and advanced technologies are critical.
- Addressing challenges in current methodologies will enhance the prevention of carcinogen exposure through the food chain.
