Microfluidic-Based Whole-Cell Biosensor Systems—Challenges and Future Applications

The integration of whole-cell biosensors in miniaturized measuring devices to exploit synergetic effects as small, rapid, cost-effective, sensitive, and highly specific platforms with point-of-care applicability was often discussed in recent years and many different setups have been presented to date. In many cases these setups were envisaged as powerful systems in their respective fields; however, the anticipated success often failed to materialize, and the systems remained a proof-of-concept. We elaborate on the hurdles and possible challenges that have to be overcome for the successful development and application of such systems. Further, we critically discuss and rank the impact of different challenges during system development, application, and commercialization. Finally, we point out possible future applications and conclude future perspectives for whole-cell biosensors integrated into microfluidic platforms.