Application of Magnetic Nanomaterials as Biosensors

Sensors have emerged as rapid analytical tools in the field of pharmaceutics, food safety, quality, and environment. The current requirement is the development of an efficient biosensor which can detect and analyse even the minor biological interactions quickly with reproducibility, precision and accuracy. A biosensor device has a bioinspired receptor, which is analyte specific in nature and show response towards analytes such as microorganisms, antibodies, antigens, glucose or pollutants. The metal-based nanoparticles can also serve as an excellent material for detection of biomolecules. Magnetic nanomaterials have many advantages over other nanomaterials used for biosensing. Magnetic nanoparticles display enhanced sensitivity, precision and stability hence pose a suitable candidature as material for biosensors. The magnetic nanomaterials can either be used as bioreceptors, biolabels, or transducers. The magnetic nanomaterials can be suitable candidates in meeting future requirements in the field of healthcare. The magnetic nanomaterials can also be used as contrast imaging agents. The magnetic nanomaterial-based biosensors also extend their application in the field of environmental monitoring, analysis and remediation. The book chapter is an overview of introduction to biosensors, components comprising a biosensor, working and principles for their sensing, use of nanomaterials especially magnetic materials in their fabrication, various application of biosensors, and future perspectives of biosensors.