Erratum to “Electrical detection of pathogenic bacteria in food samples using information visualization methods with a sensor based on magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with antimicrobial peptides” [Talanta 194 (2019) 611–618]

Recent Advances in Microfluidics-Based Electrochemical Sensors for Foodborne Pathogen Detection

Using pathogen-infected food that can be unhygienic can result in severe diseases and an increase in mortality rate among humans. This may arise as a serious emergency problem if not appropriately restricted at this point of time. Thus, food science researchers are concerned with precaution, prevention, perception, and immunity to pathogenic bacteria. Expensive, elongated assessment time and the need for skilled personnel are some of the shortcomings of the existing conventional methods. Developing and investigating a rapid, low-cost, handy, miniature, and effective detection technology for pathogens is indispensable. In recent times, there has been a significant scope of interest for microfluidics-based three-electrode potentiostat sensing platforms, which have been extensively used for sustainable food safety exploration because of their progressively high selectivity and sensitivity. Meticulously, scholars have made noteworthy revolutions in signal enrichment tactics, measurable devices, and portable tools, which can be used as an allusion to food safety investigation. Additionally, a device for this purpose must incorporate simplistic working conditions, automation, and miniaturization. In order to meet the critical needs of food safety for on-site detection of pathogens, point-of-care testing (POCT) has to be introduced and integrated with microfluidic technology and electrochemical biosensors. This review critically discusses the recent literature, classification, difficulties, applications, and future directions of microfluidics-based electrochemical sensors for screening and detecting foodborne pathogens.

Combining Antimicrobial Peptides with Nanotechnology: An Emerging Field in Theranostics

The emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens and their rapid adaptation against new antibiotics is a major challenge for scientists and medical professionals. Different approaches have been taken to combat this problem, which includes rationally designed potent antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and several nanoparticles and quantum dots. AMPs are considered as a new generation of super antibiotics that hold enormous potential to fight against bacterial resistance by the rapidly killing planktonic as well as their biofilm form while keeping low toxicity profile against eukaryotic cells. Various nanoparticles and quantum dots have proved their effectiveness against a vast array of infections and diseases. Conjugation and functionalization of nanoparticles with potentially active antimicrobial peptides have added advantages that widen their applications in the field of drug discovery as well as delivery system including imaging and diagnostics. This article reviews the current progress and implementation of different nanoparticles and quantum dots conjugated antimicrobial peptides in terms of bio-stability, drug delivery, and therapeutic applications.