Recent advances in lab-on-paper diagnostic devices using blood samples
Wen-Chin Lee1, Hwee-Yeong Ng1, Chih-Yao Hou2
1Division of Nephrology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung, 833, Taiwan. ctlee33@cgmh.org.tw.
Lab on a Chip
|April 21, 2021
Summary
Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) offer low-cost, portable blood analysis for point-of-care diagnostics. This review highlights recent advancements and diverse clinical applications of μPADs in disease detection.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Analytical Chemistry
- Point-of-Care Diagnostics
Background:
- Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) utilize paper substrates with microchannels for capillary-driven sample analysis.
- These devices offer reduced size and cost, eliminating the need for external driving forces.
- μPADs are gaining traction for point-of-care medical diagnostics, especially in resource-limited settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review major advances in lab-on-paper technology for blood analysis over the past five years.
- To focus on the clinical applications of μPADs in diagnosing various human diseases.
- To summarize current challenges and future opportunities in the field.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on lab-on-paper technology and its applications.
- Focus on devices utilizing paper as a substrate with microfluidic channels.
- Analysis of diagnostic capabilities for a wide range of clinical markers.
Main Results:
- Significant progress in μPADs for blood analysis, covering diverse applications.
- Demonstrated utility in diagnosing conditions like diabetes, AMI, kidney/liver dysfunction, and infectious diseases.
- Advancements in fabrication, detection techniques, and sample pretreatment processes.
Conclusions:
- Lab-on-paper technology shows great promise for accessible and affordable point-of-care diagnostics.
- Continued innovation is expected to address current challenges and expand clinical utility.
- μPADs are poised to revolutionize medical diagnostics globally.
