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Editorial
, Volume: 21( 1)Biosensors: Principles, Design, and Applications in Modern Biotechnology
Samuel Adeyemi* Department of Medical Biochemistry, West African University of Health Sciences, Nigeria; Corresponding author: Samuel Adeyemi, Department of Medical Biochemistry, West African University of Health Sciences, Nigeria; Email: samuel.adeyemi@healthsciencesuni.af Received: December 04, 2025; Accepted: December 18, 2025; Published: December 27, 2025
Abstract Biosensors are analytical devices that combine a biological recognition element with a physicochemical transducer to detect and quantify specific analytes. They have become indispensable tools in healthcare, environmental monitoring, food safety, and industrial biotechnology due to their high sensitivity, specificity, and rapid response. Continuous advancements in material science, nanotechnology, and molecular biology have significantly enhanced biosensor performance and expanded their application range. This article presents an overview of biosensors, focusing on their fundamental principles, types, and growing importance in modern scientific and technological contexts.
Keywords: Biosensors, Biorecognition, Transducers, Diagnostics, Nanotechnology
Abstract
Biosensors are analytical devices that combine a biological recognition element with a physicochemical transducer to detect and quantify specific analytes. They have become indispensable tools in healthcare, environmental monitoring, food safety, and industrial biotechnology due to their high sensitivity, specificity, and rapid response. Continuous advancements in material science, nanotechnology, and molecular biology have significantly enhanced biosensor performance and expanded their application range. This article presents an overview of biosensors, focusing on their fundamental principles, types, and growing importance in modern scientific and technological contexts.
Introduction Biosensors are integrated analytical systems designed to provide quantitative or semi-quantitative information through the interaction between a biological sensing element and a transducer. The biological component, which may include enzymes, antibodies, nucleic acids, cells, or tissues, is responsible for the specific recognition of a target analyte. The transducer converts the biological interaction into a measurable signal, such as an electrical, optical, thermal, or mechanical response. The combination of selectivity and signal conversion enables biosensors to deliver fast and accurate analytical results.The development of biosensors has been driven by the increasing demand for rapid, portable, and cost-effective analytical tools. In medical diagnostics, biosensors are widely used for monitoring glucose levels, detecting infectious agents, and measuring biomarkers associated with various diseases. Their ability to provide real-time analysis supports early diagnosis, personalized treatment, and improved disease management. Beyond healthcare, biosensors play a crucial role in environmental monitoring by detecting pollutants, toxins, and pathogens in air, water, and soil, thereby contributing to public health and environmental protection.Advancements in nanotechnology and materials science have significantly improved biosensor sensitivity and miniaturization. The incorporation of nanomaterials such as nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, and graphene enhances signal transduction and increases surface area for biorecognition. Additionally, developments in microfabrication and microfluidics have enabled thecreation of lab-on-a-chip devices, allowing multiple analyses to be performed simultaneously using minimal sample volumes. These innovations have broadened the scope of biosensor applications and facilitated their integration into point-of-care testing and wearable technologies .Despite their advantages, biosensor development faces challenges related to stability, reproducibility, and large-scale manufacturing. The performance of biological recognition elements can be affected by environmental conditions, limiting sensor lifespan and reliability. Ongoing research focuses on improving biocompatibility, developing synthetic recognition elements, and enhancing data processing through artificial intelligence and wireless communication. These efforts aim to overcome existing limitations and further expand the utility of biosensors across diverse fields.
Citation: Samuel Adeyemi. Biosensors: Principles, Design, and Applications in Modern Biotechnology. Biotechnol Ind J 21(1):018. 1 © 2025 Trade Science Inc. www.tsijournals.com | December-2025
Conclusion Biosensors represent a vital intersection of biology, chemistry, and engineering, offering powerful solutions for rapid and accurate detection of a wide range of analytes. Their applications in healthcare, environmental monitoring, food safety, and industrial processes highlight their broad impact and practical significance. Continued technological innovation is expected to enhance biosensor performance, accessibility, and integration with digital health platforms. As a result, biosensors will continue to play an essential role in advancing diagnostics, monitoring, and decision-making in modern biotechnology and society.
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