Optical Biosensor-Based Detection of Drug-Resistant Bacteria Using Lateral Flow Immunoassay

The worldwide dissemination of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens via the food supply chain now represents a critical challenge for international health. Ensuring the integrity of food products necessitates the development of methodologies for the swift identification of resistant bacterial strains. Optical biosensing platforms utilizing lateral flow immunochromatographic assay (LFIA) principles have garnered substantial interest for their capacity to perform point-of-need detection via portable strips. This discussion evaluates contemporary advancements in optical LFIA technologies, specifically focusing on strategies for enhancing analytical sensitivity, selectivity, and the integration of antibody-modified substrates. Furthermore, this review categorizes specific drug-resistant bacterial targets and explores their detection through various practical and industrial lenses. The concluding segments emphasize the utility of LFIA as a versatile instrument for epidemiological tracking, detailed microbial assessment, and real-time surveillance within food production environments.