Abstract
Antibiotic release and transfer within environmental systems significantly impact ecological stability and human health, posing considerable safety risks. Consequently, accurate and efficient detection methods for antibiotics, particularly within complex environmental matrices, are essential. A growing body of research is focusing on antibiotic pollution in wastewater and other environmental settings. Nevertheless, pervasive matrix interferences in complex water matrices and the inherent limitations of standalone analytical approaches in sensitivity, detection range, and other performance metrics underscore the demand for more robust and versatile detection platforms. Here we show a comprehensive overview and critical assessment of antibiotic contaminants, examining their sources, environmental distribution, and current detection methods. We focus on emerging antibiotic detection technologies, comparing their performance and highlighting suitable application contexts. Furthermore, we discuss fundamental principles and historical advancements in antibiotic detection and analytical methodologies. Finally, we identify significant challenges for antibiotic detection in complex environments, suggest viable strategies for future improvements, and outline promising research directions. This review not only provides essential guidance for advancing environmental antibiotic monitoring but also sheds light on the development of a strategic framework for robust, integrated platforms enabling multiplexed antibiotic monitoring in challenging environmental water matrices.