Various kinds of sensors or biosensors have critically been reviewed, especially for their advantages and limitations. This paper reviews the literature regarding the current, and potential future, use of biological organisms as sensors for forensic science applications. Recent literature reveals an increasing interest in olfactory receptors - the biological components that impart olfactory ability - for detecting volatile compounds associated with forensically significant substances such as explosives and illicit drugs. While the fundamental aim for many developers of portable instruments is to replicate the remarkable ability of biological olfactory systems, such analytical equipment is yet to possess the detection and discriminatory powers achieved by biological sensors. A variety of insects including bees, wasps, and moths, which have also been shown to detect volatile compounds of forensic significance, have been investigated for their potential application in field-based detection systems. Whole-organism biological sensors, such as detection canines, have been employed in forensic science as volatile compound detectors for many years. Biological olfactory systems possess the extraordinary ability to not only detect many thousands of distinct volatile compounds (odors) but also to discriminate between them. The detection and identification of volatile compounds is essential to the successful undertaking of numerous forensic analyses.
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