Advance in organophosphorus pesticides detection technology based on acetylcholinesterase inhibition

Abstract

With the increasing global population and diminishing arable land, organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) play a crucial role in safeguarding agricultural production. However, their residues pose significant threats to ecosystems and human health through the food chain. Enzyme biosensors based on the inhibition principle of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) have emerged as vital technologies for the rapid on-site detection of OPs residues due to their high sensitivity, selectivity, and portability. Taking AChE as a prime example, this review systematically summarizes the latest advances in technologies based on the enzyme inhibition principle for OPs detection. It critically examines the applications of colorimetric methods, fluorometric methods, electrochemical sensors, and other emerging techniques. While current technologies have significantly improved detection performance, achieving detection limits at the μg•L⁻¹ level, for instance, with smartphone-assisted platforms, challenges remain, including enzyme instability, limited quantitative range, and matrix interference. Future research needs to integrate artificial intelligence-assisted enzyme design, multifunctional nanomaterials, and portable devices to advance the development of next-generation, highly robust detection technologies. This review offers a comprehensive assessment of the current state-of-the-art and future perspectives, serving as a valuable resource for researchers in this field.