Determination of microcystin-LR, employing aptasensors

Cyanobacteria produce toxins such as microcystin-LR (MC-LR), which are associated with potential hepatotoxicity in humans. The detection of cyanobacteria and their toxins in drinking water and sea food is therefore crucial. To date, methods such as high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), protein phosphatase inhibition assay (PPIA), and Raman spectroscopy have been employed to monitor MC-LR levels. Although these techniques are precise and sensitive, they require expensive instrumentation, well-trained personnel and involve time-consuming processes meaning that their application is generally limited to well-resourced, centralised laboratory facilities. Among the emerging MC-LR detection methods, aptasensors have received great attention because of their remarkable sensitivity, selectivity, and simplicity. Aptamers, also known as "chemical" or "artificial antibodies", serve as the recognition moieties in aptasensors. This review explores the current state-of-the-art of MC-LR aptasensor platforms, evaluating the advantages and, limitations of typical transduction technologies to identify the most efficient detection system for the potentially harmful cyanobacteria associated toxin.