Thread as a substrate for low-cost point-of-care diagnostics

Abstract

This study presents new applications of thread-based microfluidic systems in chemical and biochemical diagnostics. Our recent reports have demonstrated the capability of fabricating low-cost microfluidic devices using ubiquitous multifilament materials such as threads. The gaps between fibres in threads provide capillary wicking channels for liquid transport; therefore, liquid can penetrate along threads without the need of external forces. The new threadbased system, combined with the cheap dosing tools, is capable of easily and rapidly semi-quantifying the concentration of analytes in human body fluids. The utility of this system is further extended for the rapid and easy blood grouping wi..