Biosensor technology-advanced scientific tools, with special reference to nanobiosensors and plant- and food-based biosensors

There is a great need to detect pollutants and other toxins, adulterants, and pathogens in food products to avoid risks for humans. Similarly, a number of plant pathogens and the use of higher quantities of chemical pesticides have given rise to potential environmental and health hazards. Various sophisticated techniques have been developed for monitoring these problems, and among them the biosensor is the most important. Due to their characteristics, biosensors can easily monitor contaminants in food, detect pathogens affecting plants and crops, and monitor the nutritional content of plants. The different types of biosensors, their principles, and their working efficiencies for detecting food contaminants, preventing disease in plants, and other useful applications are summarized in this chapter. The applicability of advanced concepts of biotechnology and nanotechnology-based biosensor fabrication and their future perspectives are also briefly described.