A field amplification enhanced paper-based analytical device with a robust chemiluminescence detection module

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biosensors
• Point-of-Care Testing (POCT)

Background:

• Paper-based analytical devices (PADs) offer low cost and portability for point-of-care testing (POCT).
• Improving sensitivity and analytical performance of PADs is crucial for broader applications.
• Chemiluminescence (CL) detection coupled with preconcentration techniques can enhance analytical capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a sensitive paper-based analytical device (PAD) for hemin detection.
• To integrate electrokinetic preconcentration (field-amplified stacking, FAS) with chemiluminescence (CL) detection on a PAD.
• To evaluate the analytical performance, selectivity, and applicability of the developed PAD system.

Main Methods:

• A paper-based analytical device (PAD) was fabricated with a simple paper fluidic channel.
• Hemin was preconcentrated using field-amplified stacking (FAS) on the paper channel.
• Chemiluminescence (CL) detection was performed using a luminol-H2O2 reagent and a miniaturized optical module.

Main Results:

• A low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.58 nM for hemin was achieved within a linear range of 1-1000 nM.
• Field-amplified stacking (FAS) resulted in a 13-fold signal enhancement.
• The PAD demonstrated good selectivity and applicability in detecting hemin in iron supplements and human serum samples with high recovery rates.

Conclusions:

• The developed PAD system effectively combines FAS preconcentration and CL detection for sensitive hemin analysis.
• The integration of an optical detection module significantly improved the LOD and dynamic range of the PAD.
• This approach offers a promising, cost-effective, and portable solution for hemin detection in POCT applications.