Aptamers for aflatoxin M1: from aptasensing technology to commercialization

Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) contamination in milk and dairy products poses a significant global concern due to its severe health risks to humans. Sensitive and specific detection of AFM1 has emerged as the most effective strategy for mitigating these health risks. Aptamers are regarded as ideal biorecognition elements for AFM1 monitoring owing to their small size, ease of production, excellent affinity and specificity, high stability, and low immunogenicity. Herein, we review the advancements in SELEX-based aptamer selection and the recent development of aptasensors for AFM1 from 2020 to 2025 for the first time. Additionally, the progress in signal transduction strategies, underlying mechanisms, and the design of portable devices are highlighted. Furthermore, we critically examine and summarize the prospects, challenges, and future trends in aptasensor technology, with a particular emphasis on its potential for real-world application and commercialization.