An Aptamer-based Paper Microfluidic Device for the Colorimetric Determination of Cocaine

• NCJ Number: 253439
• Journal: Electrophoresis Volume: 39 Issue: 3 Dated: 2018 Pages: 470-475
• Date Published: 2018
• Author(s): Ling Wang; Giacomo Musile; Bruce R. McCord
• Length: 6 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2013-DN-BX-K032
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)

Annotation

This article reports on the development of a method that uses paper microfluidics coupled with gold nanoparticles and two anticocaine aptamers to detect seized cocaine samples.

Abstract

This ready-to-use format involves the use of a paper strip that produces a color change resulting from the salt-induced aggregation of gold nanoparticles producing a visible color change indicating the presence of the drug. This format is specific for the detection of cocaine. The visual LOD for the method was 2.5 microgram and the camera based LOD was 2.36 microgram. The operation of the device is easy, rapid, and does not require extensive training or instrumentation. All of the materials utilized in the device are safe and environmentally friendly. This device should prove a useful tool for the screening of forensic samples. (publisher abstract modified)