Scent Goes Digital: The Role of Insect Odorant Binding Proteins in Modern Technology

Researchers have developed hybrid bionic platforms for odor detection, inspired by natural chemoreceptive systems, advancing artificial olfactory systems that recognize specific volatile compounds. Odorant binding proteins (OBPs) are small carrier proteins found in the olfactory organs of mammals and insects. When coupled with electrical transducers, OBPs act as recognition elements, converting chemical signals into electrical outputs. This enables the development of biological electronic noses that are based on biomimetics and aim for sustainability. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive and updated overview of OBP-based biosensors, with a particular focus on insect OBPs as biorecognition elements, and to critically examine their applications, advantages, and technological potential across different fields. OBP-based biosensors show strong promise in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, food quality, insect pest control, and security. Insects demonstrate remarkable sensitivity to specific odors which makes them excellent models for designing bioinspired biosensors. Compared to conventional methods, OBP-based biosensors offer significant advantages in terms of portability, rapid response, and cost-effectiveness. OBPs are remarkably stable under different environmental conditions and can bind both volatile and aqueous-phase molecules, enhancing their functional versatility. Moreover, they can be produced through biotechnological processes using renewable resources, supporting eco-friendly innovation. These advantages make OBPs ideal candidates for next-generation biosensors in fields requiring real-time and on-site chemical detection.