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

QR code-assisted paper-based analytical devices (QR-PAD) are presented for the rapid detection of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a critical biomarker associated with diverse pathological and physiological conditions. The QR-PAD platform comprises two folded layers: an acetate sheet for QR code readout and a nitrocellulose (NC) membrane as the testing surface. The system enables standardized qualitative analysis through QR code decoding and quantitative analysis via colorimetric evaluation of test spots. Importantly, the QR-PAD successfully detected DHEA in synthetic serum samples without interference from testosterone, cholesterol, or bovine serum albumin (BSA). Overall, this dual-mode QR-PAD demonstrates both qualitative and quantitative detection capabilities, merging the advantages of QR technology and paper substrates to advance practical, portable, and reliable diagnostic solutions.