Nitroaromatic compounds (NACs), which are frequently used as explosives, represent a class of persistent xenobiotics with considerable biochemical and ecological relevance. Their detection in complex matrices such as soil and water represents a major analytical challenge. Although chromatographic and mass spectrometric methods offer high sensitivity, their applicability is limited by demanding sample preparation and instrumentation. In recent years, immunochemical methods have established themselves as highly selective bioanalytical tools for the detection of trace amounts of NACs. This review highlights the structural principles of hapten-antibody interactions, the production and characterization of monoclonal and recombinant antibodies, and their application in immunoassays and lateral flow devices. A particular focus is placed on the development of antibody fragments and nanobodies that offer improved thermal and chemical stability, reduced steric hindrance, and compatibility with biosensor technologies. The integration of immunoassay formats with transducer platforms is discussed in the context of the further development of field-ready diagnostics. Immunodetection is thus an example of a bioanalytical strategy that combines molecular detection with biochemical assay design and represents a robust alternative for monitoring environmental pollutants of toxicological concern.
Zelenović et al. (Wed,) studied this question.