Smart micro-sensing: Antibodies and aptamer-based micro-ELISA as performing offline/on line tool for allergens and mycotoxins detection in foods

Abstract

Concerning food safety, the interest for smart and portable biosensor is growing. On the other side, current commercial solution still does not reach performance comparable to laboratory test. Micro-ELISA is a smart portable biosensor useful in implementing the paradigms of the Process Analytical Technology (PAT) to the food industry. The use of this biosensor device (Lab-On-a-Chip disposable card, LOC) is a promising tool devoted to the detection of biotic and abiotic contaminant during the whole food supply chain with the accuracy and precision of laboratory methods. Micro-ELISA probes are based on affinity biomolecules, both antibodies and aptamers can be used. Some examples of applications − obtained from the project “Food Digital Monitoring”, supported by structural and National funds for Regional Development — are reported: lysozyme as food allergen and aflatoxin B1 as food contaminant.