Review of recent advances in aptasensor for the detection of foodborne pathogenic Escherichia coli O157:H7

Authors: LIN, MENG-WEI - National Yang-Ming University; Quintela, Irwin; Wu, Vivian; LIN, CHIH-SHENG - National Yang-Ming University

Submitted to: Journal of Food Safety
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/14/2025
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: Shiga toxin-producing E. coli or STEC is a leading cause of foodborne illnesses worldwide. Transmission primarily occurs through the consumption of contaminated food and water, highlighting the critical need for efficient detection methods to ensure public health safety. Traditional microbiological methods for identifying specifically STEC O157:H7, while effective, often require extended incubation times, complex procedures, and specialized laboratory facilities. Consequently, there is an urgent demand for rapid, sensitive, and cost-effective detection techniques that can be deployed in various settings, from food processing plants to remote field locations.The aptamer-based biosensor (aptasensor) is an innovative approach developed and evaluated for rapid detection of STEC O157:H7 since 2010s. This study discusses the latest advancements across diverse aptasensor types, including electrochemical, optical, and magnetic approaches, for detecting STEC O157:H7. This review also examines the working principles, advantages, and drawbacks of these platforms, underscoring the potential of aptasensors for use in real food and environmental samples.

Technical Abstract: Foodborne infections represent a significant global health threat, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) O157:H7 standing out as a critical pathogen due to its association with severe conditions like hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome. The prevalence of this strain underscores the urgent need for effective food safety measures. Among emerging innovations, aptamer-based biosensors (aptasensors) offer increased sensitivity and reduced detection times compared to traditional methods for identifying E. coli O157:H7. Aptamers, short single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) or RNA molecules, act as bio-recognition elements, exhibiting high specificity and affinity for foodborne pathogens. This scoping review examines recent advancements in aptasensor technology over the past five years, focusing on platforms targeting E. coli O157:H7 detection. Key elements such as detection targets, sample types, transducers, sensing mechanisms, fabrication methods, and detection limits were analyzed to identify the strengths and limitations of current aptasensor platforms. The findings indicate that most optical aptasensors, particularly fluorescence-based ones, have been developed for detecting E. coli O157:H7 in water, food and milk samples. Currently developing aptasensors show promise, offering reliable alternatives with improved detection capabilities. Nonetheless, further studies are still needed to validate their sensitivity and specificity to facilitate broader clinical applications. This review explores the latest developments across diverse aptasensor types, including electrochemical, optical, and magnetic approaches, and examines their working principles, advantages, and limitations. It highlights the potential of aptasensors for practical applications in real food and environmental samples, emphasizing their role in advancing food safety monitoring systems.