Application of colorimetric and luminescence biosensors in antibiotic detection

Marzieh Rahmani¹ Maryam Besharati²

1) Master of Science in Cellular and Molecular Biology, Kowsar University (Special for Sisters), Bojnord, Iran
2) PhD in Microbial Biotechnology, Assistant Professor, Kowsar University (Special for Sisters), Bojnourd, Iran

IOI Code : AAHC-ABAEBG
Publication : National Conference on Management, Commercialization, Knowledge-Based Economy and Investment for Production(impeb.ir)
Abstract :
    The presence of antibiotic residues in the food chain and the environment is a global public health concern, leading to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Traditional detection methods such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry, although sensitive and accurate, are often complex, expensive, and require a skilled operator. In recent years, colorimetric and luminescent biosensors have emerged as rapid, sensitive, low-cost, and portable alternatives for antibiotic monitoring. This article provides a comprehensive review of the advances in this field from 2020 to 2025. The principles of detection based on colorimetry (visual detection) and luminescence (including fluorescence, phosphorescence, and chemiluminescence) are discussed. Emerging sensing materials such as carbon nanomaterials (carbon dots, graphene oxide), metal nanoparticles (gold, silver), metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) that are used as sensing elements are reviewed. The performance of these sensors in detecting various classes of antibiotics (e.g., beta-lactams, tetracyclines, quinolones, sulfonamides, and aminoglycosides) in various matrices such as food, water, and biological samples is analyzed. Current challenges including selectivity in complex matrices, reusability, and standardization are discussed, along with future prospects including integration with digital technologies and development of multifunctional sensing platforms. This review demonstrates that optical biosensors, especially with the integration of advanced nanomaterials, have great potential to become routine monitoring tools at the point of care.

Keywords : biosensor colorimetry luminescence antibiotic detection