Paper-based diagnostic tests developed for easy medical testing

Scientists have developed a new type of inexpensive paper-based medical diagnostic test that can be used without any need for specialist equipment or training.

Created at Purdue University, the self-powered paper-based electrochemical devices (SPEDs) are designed to detect biomarkers and identify disease by performing touch-activated electrochemical analyses, before offering colour-coded test results.

The top layer of the SPED is fabricated using untreated cellulose paper with patterned hydrophobic domains for blood analysis, while the bottom layer incorporates a triboelectric generator that generates the current necessary to run the test simply by rubbing or pressing it.

An inexpensive handheld device called a potentiostat has also been developed that can plug into the SPED to automate the diagnostic tests, allowing them to be performed by untrained users.

SPEDs are compatible with mass-printing technologies and have already been used to detect biomarkers such as glucose, uric acid and L-lactate, ketones and white blood cells. In future, more layers could be added for more complex monitoring.

Ramses Martinez, an assistant professor of industrial and biomedical engineering at Purdue University, said: "We hope these devices will serve untrained people located in remote villages or military bases to test for a variety of diseases without requiring any source of electricity, clean water or additional equipment."

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