Recognition elements based on the molecular biological techniques for detecting pesticides in food: A review

Abstract

Excessive use of pesticides can cause contamination of the environment and agricultural products that are directly threatening human life and health. Therefore, in the process of food safety supervision, it is crucial to conduct sensitive and rapid detection of pesticide residues. The recognition element is the vital component of sensors and methods for fast testing pesticide residues in food. Improper recognition elements may lead to defects of testing methods, such as poor stability, low sensitivity, high economic costs, and waste of time. We can use the molecular biological technique to address these challenges as a good strategy for recognition element production and modification. Herein, we review the molecular biological methods of five specific recognition elements, including aptamers, genetic engineering antibodies, DNAzymes, genetically engineered enzymes, and whole-cell-based biosensors. In addition, the application of these identification elements combined with biosensor and immunoassay methods in actual detection was also discussed. The purpose of this review was to provide a valuable reference for further development of rapid detection methods for pesticide residues.

Graphical Abstract

Recognition elements based on the molecular biological technique and their application in pesticide detection.

Keywords:

• Molecular biology techniques
• recognition elements
• biosensor
• immunoassay technology

Authors’ contribution

Mingqi Zhao, Miao Wang, Jing Wang and Guangyue Li discussed the contents, wrote, and reviewed the manuscript. A. M. Abd El-Aty edited the manuscript. The final manuscript was read and approved by all authors.

Disclosure statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This research was funded by the National Key Point Research and Invention Program (No. 2019YFC1605600), Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Program of CAAS (CAAS-ZDRW202011), National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 32072313; 31772071); and Introduction of Foreign Intelligence Programs of Shijiazhuang City (No. 20210017).