beta-N-oxalyl-L,alpha,beta-diaminopropionic acid (beta-ODAP), a neurotoxin is found in the seeds of grass pea (Lathyrus sativus). The excessive consumption of beta-ODAP by humans in several parts of Asia and Africa is known to cause neurolathyrism, an upper motor neuron degenerative disease, characterized by a spastic paraplegia. This review summarizes the principles, merits, demerits and various methods for determination of beta-ODAP, with special emphasis on beta-ODAP biosensors. The performance of beta-ODAP sensors could be improved by tailoring the properties of the interface with nanoparticles through engineering morphology, particle size, effective surface area, functionality, adsorption capability and electron-transfer properties. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.