Toward Next Generation Lateral Flow Assays: Integration of Nanomaterials

Lateral flow assays (LFAs) are currently the most used point-of-care sensors for both diagnostic (e.g., pregnancy test, COVID-19 monitoring) and environmental (e.g., pesticides and bacterial monitoring) applications. Although the core of LFA technology was developed several decades ago, in recent years the integration of novel nanomaterials as signal transducers or receptor immobilization platforms has brought improved analytical capabilities. In this Review, we present how nanomaterial-based LFAs can address t h e inherent challenges of point-of-care (PoC) diagnostics such as sensit i v i t y enhancement, lowering of detection limits, multiplexing, and quantification of analytes in complex samples. Specifically, we highlight the strategies that can synergistically solve the limitations of current LFAs and that have proven commercial feasibi l i t y . Finally, we discuss the barriers toward commercialization and the next generation of LFAs.

Automated summary

This article reviews the application of nanomaterial-based lateral flow assays (LFAs) in point-of-care diagnostics. By incorporating novel nanomaterials as signal transducers or receptor immobilization platforms, the analytical capabilities of LFAs have been improved. The article highlights strategies that can address the limitations of current LFAs and have shown commercial feasibility.