Lab-on-a-Chip Based Diagnostics

Dear Colleagues,

Lab-on-a-chip technologies have led to remarkable advances in diagnostics in recent years. These advances include the development of a wide range of diagnostic platforms; novel microfluidic operations; the development of fully-integrated and automated bioanalytical platforms and systems; strategies for multiplex detection; prolonged storage of assay reagents  and biomolecules; incorporation of various biosensing principles; rapid and highly-simplified assay formats; surface modification and leach-proof biomolecular immobilization schemes; strategies for reducing non-specific binding; signal enhancement procedures; cost-effective prototyping and mass-production of LOC platforms; smartphone-based readout of LOC assays; and, assay formats and devices enabling mobile healthcare and point-of-care testing (POCT). These developments have led to prospective LOC-based diagnostics that enable fully integrated and automated analysis of analytes at decentralized, remote, and POC settings apart from central laboratories. New biorecognition elements, such as aptamers, are further enabling the development of highly-sensitive assays. Similarly, paper-based assays, such as lateral flow assays, are rapid and low-cost diagnostic platforms for potential applications in developing nations. A plethora of smartphone-based POC devices, such as the integrated rapid test strip reader and smartphone-based LOC device for multiplex detection, are further paving the way for critically improved diagnostics at POC settings. The coming years will witness many such LOC technologies making their way into the commercial market. The continuous increase in the market share and penetration of such technologies will fuel the development of next-generation of LOC-based personalized mobile healthcare devices.

Dr. Sandeep K. Vashist
Guest Editor

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