Bacteriophages, owing to their nanoscale size, defined architectures, and readiness for genetic manipulation, are recognized as innate nanobiological building blocks. Their extraordinary host selectivity, robustness under diverse conditions, and facile cultivation render them attractive recognition moieties for applications in nanobiotechnology and biosensing. This review outlines various recognition formats, including native bacteriophages, genetically modified phages, and phage-displayed protein derivatives, and examines the properties and uses of these distinct recognition entities. Regarding sensing modalities, we review the underlying signal transduction mechanisms, detection principles, and performance attributes of prominent platforms such as electrochemical, optical, and mass-sensitive sensors. Furthermore, this paper highlights current challenges associated with phage-based sensing technologies, including phage stability, sensor reproducibility, large-scale fabrication, and clinical validation. Future research directions such as integration with nanomaterials, AI-assisted signal analysis, multiplex pathogen detection, portable point-of-care platforms, and improved biosensor standardization are also discussed to support the advancement of bacteriophage-enabled sensing systems.
Pankaj Kumar (Sun,) studied this question.