Aptamers functionalized hybrid nanomaterials for algal toxins detection and decontamination in aquatic system: Current progress, opportunities, and challenges

Authors : Mawethu Pascoe Bilibana, Marimuthu Citartan, Xolile Fuku, Abongile Nwabisa Jijana, Penny Mathumba, Emmanuel Iwuoha 

Title of Publication : Aptamers functionalized hybrid nanomaterials for algal toxins detection and decontamination in aquatic system: Current progress, opportunities, and challenges

Journal Name : Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety

Quartile : Q1

Impact Factor : 6.291

Link : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113249

Description : Purification and detection of algal toxins is the most effective technique to ensure that people have clean and safe drinking water. To achieve these objectives, various state-of-the-art technologies were designed and fabricated to decontaminate and detect algal toxins in aquatic environments. Amongst these technologies, aptamer-functionalized hybrid nanomaterials conjugates have received significant consideration as a result of their several benefits over other methods, such as good controllable selectivity, low immunogenicity, and biocompatibility. Because of their excellent properties, aptamer-functionalized hybrid nanomaterials conjugates are one of several remarkable agents. Several isolated aptamer sequences for algal toxins are addressed in this review, as well as aptasensor and decontamination aptamer functionalized metal nanoparticle-derived hybrid nanocomposites applications. In addition, we present diverse aptamer-functionalized hybrid nanomaterial conjugates designs and their applications for sensing and decontamination.