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Published on: March 9, 2017
Rapid prototyping of lateral flow assays
Alexander Volkov1, Michael Mauk, Paul Corstjens
1Department of Chemistry, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|January 23, 2009
Summary
This review covers lateral flow assays and introduces electronic readers to improve test result accuracy. It details development protocols with case studies for cotinine and HIV antibody detection.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Lateral flow strip assays are widely used for rapid detection.
- Visual inspection of results can be subjective and variable.
- Technological advancements enable objective result interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the principles and characteristics of lateral flow assays.
- To highlight the integration of electronic readers for improved accuracy.
- To describe assay development protocols with practical examples.
Main Methods:
- Review of lateral flow assay principles and recent technological developments.
- Description of protocols for developing lateral flow assays.
- Case studies involving cotinine (nicotine metabolite) and HIV antibodies.
Main Results:
- Electronic readers offer an objective alternative to visual inspection of lateral flow assays.
- Development protocols are provided for both competitive and sandwich assay formats.
- Assays for cotinine and HIV antibodies demonstrate practical application.
Conclusions:
- Electronic readers enhance the reliability and objectivity of lateral flow assay interpretation.
- Standardized protocols facilitate the development of new lateral flow assays.
- The reviewed technologies and methods support diverse diagnostic applications.

