Recent advances in biomimetic sensors for the detection of aquatic pathogens and toxins

This review examines recent advances in biomimetic sensors for detecting pathogens and toxins in aquatic ecosystems, with emphasis on aptamer-based (aptasensor) and molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-based platforms. Timely detection of pathogens and toxins in aquatic environments is critical for preventing waterborne disease outbreaks and safeguarding public and ecological health, yet conventional diagnostic methods remain slow, costly, and labor-intensive. Aptasensors and MIP-based sensors offer tunable specificity, rapid response times, and multiplexing capabilities, positioning them as promising alternatives to traditional laboratory assays. Our review highlights recent developments in aptamer discovery, post-SELEX optimization, and non-SELEX computational approaches, as well as emerging imprinting strategies for enhancing MIP selectivity. We also examine innovations in transduction components, particularly the use of nanomaterials and nanocomposites to enhance sensor sensitivity and performance. In addition, we discuss the integration of biosensors with modern communication technologies, such as wireless systems and the Internet of Things, to enable real-time monitoring and remote data transmission. Lastly, we identify technological challenges and propose pathways to advance practical, field-deployable biosensing solutions for aquatic environments.