Aptamers for aflatoxin M1: from aptasensing technology to commercialization

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biotechnology
• Food Safety

Background:

• Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) contamination in milk and dairy products is a significant global health concern.
• Sensitive and specific detection methods are crucial for mitigating AFM1-related health risks.
• Aptamers are ideal biorecognition elements due to their affinity, specificity, stability, and ease of production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in SELEX-based aptamer selection for AFM1.
• To summarize recent developments in aptasensors for AFM1 detection (2020-2025).
• To highlight progress in signal transduction, mechanisms, and portable device design.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of literature from 2020-2025.
• Focus on SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment) for aptamer development.
• Analysis of aptasensor designs, signal transduction strategies, and device portability.

Main Results:

• Significant progress in SELEX-based aptamer selection for AFM1.
• Emergence of novel aptasensor designs with enhanced sensitivity and specificity.
• Developments in signal transduction and portable aptasensor devices for on-site monitoring.

Conclusions:

• Aptasensors show great potential for sensitive and specific AFM1 detection.
• Further research is needed to address challenges in real-world application and commercialization.
• Future trends focus on improving portability, multiplexing, and integration into food safety systems.