Advances in paper-based ELISA techniques: From innovations in devices to emerging applications

Abstract

ELISA is a benchmark technique that combines the immune interaction between antigens and antibodies with enzyme catalysis. p-ELISA is a crucial segment of paper-based analytical devices that aims to replicate the conventional gold-standard ELISA on a paper platform. Traditional ELISA offers high sensitivity but is expensive due to significant reagent use, costly microplate readers, and lengthy incubation times. However, p-ELISA techniques hold potential cost-effective candidature, requiring fewer reagents and allowing data readout with scanners or smartphones. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in p-ELISA, tracing its evolution from early paper-based assays to modern, refined designs that integrate advanced materials and innovative detection techniques. p-ELISA is a versatile tool in analytical biochemistry, enabling the sensitive and specific detection of a wide range of analytes in point-of-care settings. Ongoing technological and methodological advancements indicate that p-ELISA has significant potential to influence future trends in diagnostics.