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The magic of lateral flow testing: How does it give accurate results so quickly?
Lateral flow test (LFT) is a simple rapid test device widely used in medical diagnosis, designed to detect specific substances in liquid samples without the need for expensive professional equipment. Such tests are not only commonly used at home or in medical institutions, but have also found their important application in laboratories. For example, a home pregnancy test is a type of LFT that detects specific hormones. This test can give results quickly and affordably, in about five to thirty minutes.
These tests use principles similar to affinity chromatography and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), running a sample fluid over a reactive molecular surface to display a visual positive or negative result.
The detection principle used by LFT is based on a series of capillary channels, such as porous paper or microstructured polymers, each of which has the ability to transport liquids. The sample pad first absorbs the sample fluid and then moves it to the second conjugate pad, which contains freeze-dried bioactive particles that interact with the target molecules in a chemical reaction to generate a visible signal. The test lines will display color or other identifiable markings to indicate the result.
Historical BackgroundThe development of LFT can be traced back to 1943 when Martin and Hinkey developed the paper chromatography technique, and after 1945 there was a lot of activity in this field. In 1971, the development of ELISA technology further improved the application and sensitivity of LFT.
Many companies have filed patents in this highly competitive field, including Alere, which owns a patent originally filed by Unipath.
Test Principles
In LFT, tests can be divided into competitive and sandwich tests. Sandwich assays are usually used to detect large analytes, while competition assays are more suitable for small analytes. Both detection methods can give results in a short time, showing the rapidity and simplicity of LFT.
Application Scope
Lateral flow testing has a wide range of applications, including the testing of urine, blood, saliva and other samples. They provide quick results without the need for high-end equipment, making them a common choice for home testing and pharmacies. These characteristics make LFT increasingly common in clinical laboratories and other fields.
Role in COVID-19 testing
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of LFT in rapid screening has become increasingly prominent. These tests can provide results in 15 to 30 minutes and are widely used in the community for epidemic monitoring and control. Although the sensitivity of some LFTs still needs to be improved under practical conditions, their immediacy is undoubtedly a key factor in public health response.
Depending on the characteristics of the test, some LFTs may not be sensitive enough, so caution is required when interpreting the results.
Future Outlook
With the advancement of technology, LFT is expected to continue to improve in sensitivity, accuracy, etc. Continuous research and development will enable this detection technology to demonstrate its potential in a wider range of applications. Whether used for everyday home testing or at the forefront of clinical and scientific applications, lateral flow testing still has the opportunity to make further contributions to life sciences.
Faced with such rapid expansion and continuous innovation in testing technology, have you ever thought about where health testing will go in the future and what new challenges and opportunities will arise?
