Chip-based molecular diagnostics using metal nanoparticles

Chip-based bioanalytical methods represent a promising approach for a highly parallel and robust analysis with minimal sample volumes. Key process parameters that can be decisive for certain applications are determined by the detection scheme utilized.

This review addresses typical requirements of chip-based detection systems, especially for the emerging field of point-of-care diagnostics that make possible field detection with less-trained personnel, robust assays as well as low instrumentation costs.

The use of metal nanoparticles as labels represents a promising approach. They exhibit a high stability in signal and new detection schemes that would allow for robustness and low-cost readout.

First examples of this kind have been established and are in the market, and more are in the development pipeline.