Integrated lab-on-a-chip devices: Fabrication methodologies, transduction system for sensing purposes

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry
• Microfluidics

Background:

• Lab-on-a-chip (LOC) biosensors integrate microfluidics for simultaneous lab analyses, crucial for personal healthcare and diagnostics.
• Early LOC development utilized micro-machining techniques for micro-scale sensing platforms (micro total analysis systems, μTAS).
• Recent advancements focus on flexible substrates like paper and plastic, offering durability, mobility, and cost-effective manufacturing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review fabrication methods for LOC sensing devices.
• To detail various transduction systems (electrochemical, optical, mechanical) essential for biosensor functionality.
• To summarize the detection capabilities of LOCs for diverse analytes, including small molecules, macromolecules, and cells.

Main Methods:

• Photolithography, soft lithography, screen printing, inkjet printing, laser micromachining, and nanoimprinting for LOC fabrication.
• Discussion of electrochemical, optical, and mechanical transduction principles.
• Review of analytical techniques for detecting small molecules, macromolecules, and cell bodies.

Main Results:

• Detailed overview of diverse fabrication techniques for LOC devices.
• Comprehensive description of transduction systems enabling biosensing.
• Tabulated and illustrated review of analyte detection capabilities.

Conclusions:

• LOC biosensors are pivotal for next-generation diagnostics and personal healthcare.
• Flexible substrates and advanced fabrication methods enhance LOC device potential.
• This review provides a foundational resource on LOC fabrication, transduction, and detection.