Recent progress and advancement in detecting methylmercury using a battery of biosensors and biomolecular-based techniques: An updated overview

Methylmercury (MeHg) represents the most toxic form of mercury, owing to its ability to permeate both the blood-brain and placental barriers, leading to bioaccumulation in organisms. In the marine food web, MeHg concentrations can reach levels millions of times higher than those found in the surrounding environment, posing significant ecological and human health risks. This review provides a comprehensive overviews and critical evaluation of the available biosensor detection platforms for the detection of MeHg, with a focus on their performance based on key parameters such as (i) sensitivity, (ii) selectivity, (iii) response time, and (iv) adaptability to diverse environmental matrices. We examine recent advancements in MeHg biosensing technologies, emphasizing innovative approaches that surpass current methodologies regarding detection limits, reversibility, response time, and operational stability. Furthermore, we present an in-depth discussion on future directions for the development of in situ MeHg detection platforms, with potential applications in both biomedical and environmental monitoring. The review concludes by outlining the challenges and opportunities for advancing MeHg sensing technologies to enhance real-time detection in aqueous environments.