Nanoconjugates for detection of waterborne bacterial pathogens

Abstract

This chapter presents an overview of one of the most serious global public health concerns related to waterborne bacterial pathogens and the current status of the methods employed for detection of these pathogens. The conventional methods employed are time-consuming, are complicated, and require skilled personnel, so there is always a need of simple and on-site rapid technology to identify these pathogens at early stages to circumvent disease spread and epidemics. The rise of nanoconjugates provides a powerful tool for detection and monitoring of the pathogens in a rapid, sensitive, target-specific, and cost-effective manner. Aptamer-blended nanoconjugates have been used as a biosensing tool for easy detection of waterborne bacterial pathogens. Recent advancements in the biofunctionalized magnetic nanoparticles, enzyme-based biosensors, molecular assay based on detection of specific molecular signatures, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, nanocomposite films, and functionalized macromolecules have also been taken into account. © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.