A QR code-assisted paper-based analytical device for rapid and reliable detection of dehydroepiandrosterone

Area of Science:

• Biomarker detection
• Analytical chemistry
• Point-of-care diagnostics

Background:

• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a critical biomarker for various health conditions.
• Accurate and rapid detection of DHEA is essential for timely diagnosis and management.
• Existing diagnostic methods may lack portability, speed, or cost-effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel QR code-assisted paper-based analytical device (QR-PAD) for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) detection.
• To enable both qualitative and quantitative analysis of DHEA using a single, integrated platform.
• To demonstrate the specificity and reliability of the QR-PAD system in complex biological matrices.

Main Methods:

• Designed a dual-layer QR-PAD system utilizing an acetate sheet for QR code readout and a nitrocellulose membrane for testing.
• Implemented a standardized qualitative analysis via QR code decoding.
• Enabled quantitative analysis through colorimetric evaluation of test spots.
• Tested the QR-PAD with synthetic serum samples spiked with DHEA.

Main Results:

• The QR-PAD successfully detected dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in synthetic serum samples.
• The system demonstrated specificity, with no interference observed from testosterone, cholesterol, or bovine serum albumin (BSA).
• The dual-mode functionality allowed for both qualitative and quantitative assessment of DHEA levels.

Conclusions:

• The QR-PAD offers a practical, portable, and reliable solution for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) detection.
• This technology merges QR code capabilities with paper-based substrates for advanced diagnostics.
• The developed QR-PAD system holds potential for widespread application in clinical and field settings.