ABSTRACT
Aptamers have recently gained interest as signal identification components in the field of biosensors due to their strong binding propensity for specialized substrates, such as cells, proteins, tiny compounds, and even trace metals. Aptamers are individual oligonucleotide sequences that are created in vitro using the systematic evolution of ligand exponential enrichment technique. Apart from their strong affinity, aptamers can be easily modified and functionalized according to the desired application, which results in several signaling modes, such as the fluorometric, colorimetric, and electrochemical modes of aptasensors. Recent breakthroughs in aptasensors as potent biosensor devices have led to their employment in a variety of disciplines, such as clinical diagnosis and environmental monitoring. The merits and demerits of aptamer-based fluorometric, colorimetric, and electrochemical aptasensors used in the field of agriculture are summarized and critically analyzed and various detection techniques in plant and agriculture that are based on aptamers are thoroughly discussed in the chapter. Limitations of aptamer-based sensing are also highlighted in order to facilitate the advancements of aptasensor devices for application in horticulture. The chapter also includes advancements and the incorporation of smart technologies into the world of aptamers.
