Rising to the surface: capturing and detecting bacteria by rationally-designed surfaces.

Analytical microbiology has made substantial progress since its conception, starting from potato slices, through selective agar media, to engineered surfaces modified with capture probes. While the latter represents the dominant approach in designing sensors for bacteria detection, the importance of sensor surface properties is frequently ignored. Herein, we highlight their significant role in the complex process of bacterial transition from planktonic to sessile, representing the first and critical step in bacteria detection. We present the main surface features and discuss their effect on the bio-solid interface and the resulting sensing capabilities for both flat and particulate systems. The concepts of rationally-designed surfaces for enhanced bacterial detection are presented with recent examples of sensors (capture probe-free) relying solely on surface cues. [Display omitted] • Sensors for bacteria mostly rely on surface-immobilized capture probes, for example, antibodies. • Surface features are critical in the bacterial transition from planktonic to sessile. • These features are frequently overlooked in sensor design. • Rational surface design enhances bacteria capture and improves sensing. • Surface feature-based sensors offer an alternative to traditional capture probes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]