Recent Advances in Paper-Based Nano-Biosensors for Waterborne Pathogen Detection: Challenges and Solutions

Ensuring safe access to water and public health requires the availability of sensitive and fast response detection tools. Traditional detection tools present challenges of duration, procedure intricacy, and the need for trained staff. An advanced approach involves utilizing biosensors and nanomaterials, which have the capacity to detect the target analyte with high sensitivity and specificity in a short time. To date, researchers have created new techniques and materials to improve the sensitivity, detection limit, durability, and real-time analytical capabilities of biosensors. This critical review provides a thorough analysis of recent advances in paper-based nano-biosensors used for detecting waterborne pathogens, along with challenges faced in entering the market and potential solutions. The objective is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the capabilities of biosensors in detecting waterborne diseases, by evaluating technologies based on their range of concentrations and limits of detection. The review analyzed multiple biosensors and evaluated the underlying mechanisms that contribute to their effectiveness in detecting waterborne diseases. The discussion also addressed the influence of including nanomaterials on enhancing the performance of biosensors, specifically in relation to specificity, selectivity, and durability. Additionally, the challenges of translating the proof-of-concept biosensor into market products are discussed with potential solutions. The major findings reveal various biosensor technologies with distinct advantages and limitations. The thorough examination of biosensor technologies and the integration of nanomaterials offers valuable insights for academics, professionals, and policymakers involved in water quality monitoring. Additionally, it advocates for additional research to improve the performance of biosensors and address existing challenges.