A Route to the Colorimetric Detection of Alpha-Fetoprotein Based on a Smartphone

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a key marker for early cancer detection and assessment. However, the current detection methods struggle to balance accuracy with the need for decentralized medical treatment. To address this issue, a new AFP analysis platform utilizing digital image colorimetry has been developed. Functionalized gold nanoparticles act as colorimetric agents, changing from purple-red to light gray-blue when exposed to different AFP concentrations. A smartphone app captures these color changes and calculates the AFP concentration in the sample. To improve detection accuracy, a hardware device ensures uniform illumination. Testing has confirmed that this system can quantitatively analyze AFP using colorimetry. The limit of detection reached 0.083 ng/mL, and the average accuracy reached 90.81%. This innovative method enhances AFP testing by offering portability, precision, and low cost, making it particularly suitable for resource-limited areas.