Abstract
Recent advanced paper-based microfluidic devices provide an alternative technology for the detection of biomarkers by using affordable and portable devices for point-of-care testing (POCT). Programmable paper-based microfluidic devices enable a wide range of biomarker detection with high sensitivity and automation for single- and multi-step assays because they provide better control for manipulating fluid samples. In this review, we examine the advances in programmable microfluidics, i.e., paper-based continuous-flow microfluidic (p-CMF) devices and paper-based digital microfluidic (p-DMF) devices, for biomarker detection. First, we discuss the methods used to fabricate these two types of paper-based microfluidic devices and the strategies for programming fluid delivery and for droplet manipulation. Next, we discuss the use of these programmable paper-based devices for the single- and multi-step detection of biomarkers. Finally, we present the current limitations of paper-based microfluidics for biomarker detection and the outlook for their development.
Highlights
Disposable, paper-based microfluidic devices have become an attractive tool for point-of-care testing (POCT) and medical screening in the developing world
Digital microfluidic devices actuate a fluid droplet based on the electrowetting on dielectric (EWOD) technique, which requires a set of conductive electrode arrays, a dielectric layer, and a hydrophobic layer
Dissolvable materials have been used to control the volume of the aqueous sample to be delivered by the p-CMF device
Summary
Disposable, paper-based microfluidic devices have become an attractive tool for point-of-care testing (POCT) and medical screening in the developing world. Cutting and shaping ppaappeerr iinn tthhee ffaabbrriiccaattiioonn ooff pp--CCMMFF ddeevviicceess.. Pristine paper has to be coated with a hydrophobic agent, for instance, octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) n-hexane [57], TiO2 [58,59], a photopolymer [60,61], or a hydrophobic ssoo--ggeell [[6622,,6633]],, ttoo ggeenneerraattee hhyyddrroopphhoobbiicc ppaappeerr. Based on the hydrophilic-hydrophobic contrast principle in the fabrication of p-CFM devices, one can use laser light to irradiate hydrophobic paper to produce hydrophilic channels in the surface of that paper (Figure 6). Can create 3D channel; multiple layer channels No hydrophobic agents are required Can create 3D channel; simple and low-cost
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