Abstract
Flexible and easy-to-use microfluidic systems are suitable options for point-of-care diagnostics. Here, we investigate liquid transport in fluidic channels produced by stencil printing on flexible substrates as a reproducible and scalable option for diagnostics and paper-based sensing. Optimal printability and flow profiles were obtained by combining minerals with cellulose fibrils of two different characteristic dimensions, in the nano- and microscales, forming channels with ideal wettability. Biomolecular ligands were easily added by inkjet printing on the channels, which were tested for the simultaneous detection of glucose and proteins. Accurate determination of clinically relevant concentrations was possible from linear calibration, confirming the potential of the introduced paper-based diagnostics. The results indicate the promise of simple but reliable fluidic channels for drug and chemical analyses, chromatographic separation, and quality control.
Highlights
Inexpensive and portable microfluidic technologies that require minimum sample preparation are highly desirable for point-ofcare (POC) diagnostics, environmental and food quality control, and lab-on-chip analytical devices.[1,2] Given their low cost, lightweight, and accessibility, paper-based microfluidic systems have been proposed.[3−6] The latter has been used in litmus testing, chromatography, and lateral flow devices such as those used for pregnancy tests.[7,8]Microfluidic devices are commonly based on nitrocellulose membranes
We first discuss the formulation of the pastes used to deposit fluidic channels on glass supports by stencil printing
As well as detection of glucose and a protein (BSA) with the purposed systems
Summary
Inexpensive and portable microfluidic technologies that require minimum sample preparation are highly desirable for point-ofcare (POC) diagnostics, environmental and food quality control, and lab-on-chip analytical devices.[1,2] Given their low cost, lightweight, and accessibility, paper-based microfluidic systems have been proposed.[3−6] The latter has been used in litmus testing, chromatography, and lateral flow devices such as those used for pregnancy tests.[7,8]Microfluidic devices are commonly based on nitrocellulose membranes. Inexpensive and portable microfluidic technologies that require minimum sample preparation are highly desirable for point-ofcare (POC) diagnostics, environmental and food quality control, and lab-on-chip analytical devices.[1,2] Given their low cost, lightweight, and accessibility, paper-based microfluidic systems have been proposed.[3−6] The latter has been used in litmus testing, chromatography, and lateral flow devices such as those used for pregnancy tests.[7,8]. The popularity of nitrocellulose is primarily due to its ability to bind proteins irreversibly; in addition, it enables a good signal-to-noise ratio.[7] the drawbacks of nitrocellulose include its high flammability, susceptibility to humidity, short shelf life, and low strength.[7,9] Due to their hydrophobicity, commercial nitrocellulose flow membranes often require surfactants, which might cause reagent incompatibility and limit protein binding.[7] the use of nitrocellulose or paper in lateral flow assays may involve a setup that requires adhesives; depending on the type, they may block the pores of the substrate and prevent application in printable electronics. Li et al developed microfluidic channels with inkjet printing and plasma treatments to generate a hydrophilic−hydrophobic contrast on a filter paper surface.[13]
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