An electrochemical biosensor for detecting pathogenic bacteria based on hybrid nanocomposites

Prevention and control of foodborne pathogens are essential for public health safety. This study integrates organic-inorganic hybrid nanocomposites, lateral flow immunochromatography, and screen-printed electrodes to develop an innovative electrochemical biosensor for detecting foodborne pathogens. Two types of organic-inorganic hybrid nanocomposites incorporated onto a conjugate pad or nitrocellulose membrane support were used. In the presence of foodborne pathogens, a sandwich immune complex structure forms on the detection line. Ferrocene within the sandwich structure is detected using differential pulse voltammetry. The biosensor specifically detects foodborne pathogens with a minimum detection limit of 25 CFU·mL^-1 and a detection linear range of 10² to 10⁸ CFU·mL^-1, demonstrating excellent specificity and sensitivity. This biosensor can be integrated with smartphones, enhancing the intelligence and miniaturization of biosensors.