Low-cost bioanalysis on paper-based and its hybrid microfluidic platforms.

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology and Biomedical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Low-cost assays are crucial for diagnostics and analysis in resource-limited settings.
• Paper-based microfluidic devices provide an accessible platform for point-of-care (POC) analysis.
• These platforms are particularly beneficial for rural areas and developing countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in low-cost bioanalysis using paper-based microfluidic platforms.
• To summarize fabrication techniques and applications of fully paper-based and paper-hybrid microfluidic devices.
• To discuss current limitations and future trends in the field.

Main Methods:

• Review of fabrication techniques for fully paper-based microfluidic platforms.
• Analysis of applications in human health diagnostics and food safety.
• Highlighting paper-hybrid microfluidic platforms and their advantages.

Main Results:

• Paper-based microfluidic platforms offer versatile and low-cost solutions for bioanalysis.
• Both fully paper-based and hybrid platforms demonstrate significant potential in various applications.
• Hybrid platforms leverage multiple substrates for enhanced performance.

Conclusions:

• Paper-based microfluidic devices are a promising technology for expanding access to diagnostics.
• Further research is needed to address current limitations and optimize future trends.
• Continued development will enhance the utility of these platforms in diverse settings.