Critical analysis of advanced nanosensors for dengue detection

Dengue, a major global health risk, is a virus spread by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. It is most common in subtropical and tropical areas. For efficient epidemic management and control, dengue virus (DENV) identification must be performed accurately and in a timely manner. Traditional diagnostic techniques, such as molecular detection, antigen detection, and serological testing, have several drawbacks, including being expensive and time-consuming, having high turnaround times, having low sensitivity, and showing delayed results. With the advent of nanotechnology, these issues can be addressed by developing nanosensors with enhanced sensitivity, specificity, and fast detection rates. A comprehensive investigation of nanosensor applications in DENV detection is provided in this article. The dengue virus is briefly discussed, along with its composition and life cycle and drawbacks of the current diagnostic methods. After that, we evaluate the fundamental ideas behind nanosensors and how they work with contemporary technologies to identify diseases. The main approaches, including using various types of nanosensors, such as optical and fluorometric nanobiosensors, colorimetric nanosensors, and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) biosensors, impedimetric nanobiosensor-based detection methods, electrochemical and piezoelectric-based detection methods, microfluidic-based and nonconventional microfluidic-based detection of the dengue virus, CRISPR-based assays, DNA switch-based sensing technologies and using smartphone-based biosensors, are discussed in detail, highlighting their mechanisms and applications in the context of dengue detection. There is an emphasis on the benefits of these nanosensors in terms of quick, precise and affordable diagnosis. The discussion then shifts to the current challenges faced in the application of nanosensors for dengue detection. Finally, we outline future directions and emerging trends in the field, outlining possible avenues for research and development to overcome existing barriers and improve the application of nanosensors in clinical settings.