Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices: proven applications and future prospects in therapeutic drug monitoring, homeland security, and chemical education

Abstract

Since the report by Whitesides et al. in 2007 on paper-based microfluidic analytical devices (μPADs), numerous studies have been published. The characteristics of μPADs, such as low cost, simplicity, and suitability for resource-limited settings, make them promising for a wide range of applications, including medical diagnostics, environmental analysis, and food testing. While these applications have been well-documented, this review focuses on the less common applications in therapeutic drug monitoring, homeland security, and chemical education. Specifically, the μPADs discussed in this review were developed for the determination of lithium ions in blood for therapeutic drug monitoring, the determination of the nerve agent VX for homeland security, and the measurement of ascorbic acid and pH for chemical education.