Simple paper architecture modifications lead to enhanced sensitivity in nanoparticle based lateral flow immunoassays

Lateral flow immunoassays (LFIA) are ideal biosensors to detect proteins, but their lack of sensitivity hinders their extensive use. We report a strategy that yields up to an 8-fold improvement in the sensitivity of a gold nanoparticles-based LFIA by changing the sizes of the pads. Theoretical flow simulations of the developed LFIA architectures are in accordance with the experimental results. © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2013.