FrameQR®-code-embedded Paper Sensors: One-click Screening Solution to Analyze Colorimetric Output and On-chip Test and Patient Information

Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (microPADs) have significantly strengthened telehealth services by providing on-site disease biomarker screening, with the additional provision of colorimetric output quantification by image analysis applications. The analyte quantification results can be stored or shared in a centralized database accessible to healthcare professionals for disease analysis and e-prescription. However, to automatically share on-device test and patient details to a distant centralized database, it is necessary to upgrade the current microPAD format. To enhance the readability of microPADs, we have proposed laser-printed FrameQR (R)-code-coupled microPADs (FrameQR (R)-PADs) to add on-chip information. The canvas area of FrameQR (R)-PADs was used to design microchannels, while channel barriers were made hydrophobic using wax printing. This modified sensor was used for screening of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) from human serum samples, wherein the colorimetric output was scanned using a smartphone to compute the pixel intensity of images using ImageJ. By designing an integrated smartphone application to scan both on-chip and colorimetric information, FrameQR (R)-PADs can overcome the limitation of manual test labeling associated with traditionally designed microPADs and support the use of proposed assays in telehealth settings by adding the feature of online storage of patient and test details at a centralized location accessible to healthcare professionals.

Automated summary

Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (microPADs) enhance telehealth services by providing on-site disease biomarker screening and colorimetric output quantification. Laser-printed FrameQR (R)-PADs improve readability and support online storage of patient and test details in telehealth settings.