A simple method to produce 2D and 3D microfluidic paper-based analytical devices for clinical analysis

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) offer a promising platform for low-cost diagnostics.
• Accurate and sensitive detection of biomarkers like glucose, total protein, and nitrite is crucial for health monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate and evaluate novel 2D and 3D microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs).
• To establish a new, cost-effective method for μPAD fabrication using filter paper.
• To assess the analytical performance of these μPADs for detecting glucose, total protein, and nitrite in biological fluid samples.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel cutting and sealing technique for cellulose-based filter paper to create hydrophilic microchannels.
• Design of 2D and 3D μPADs with three distinct detection zones for colorimetric analysis.
• Sample application, 15-minute incubation, and digital camera imaging for quantitative analysis.

Main Results:

• Both 2D and 3D μPADs demonstrated excellent analytical performance for all target analytes.
• The 2D μPAD achieved limits of detection (LODs) of 0.54 mM (glucose), 5.19 μM (protein), and 2.34 μM (nitrite) in artificial urine.
• The 3D μPAD achieved LODs of 0.44 mM (glucose), 1.26 μM (protein), and 4.35 μM (nitrite) in artificial blood serum.

Conclusions:

• The developed fabrication method enables precise and easy production of 2D and 3D μPADs.
• These μPADs provide a sensitive and reliable platform for the simultaneous detection of glucose, total protein, and nitrite.
• The findings highlight the potential of these μPADs for accessible point-of-care diagnostic applications.