Paper-based nucleic acid biosensors

The need for affordable point-of-care diagnostic devices that can detect and track nucleic acids is growing. Traditional laboratory tests are expensive and involve time-consuming processes. By using established materials and fabrication techniques, it is possible to create devices suitable for patients, healthcare providers, and clinicians. The use of paper as a material for sensing platforms has become popular due to its low cost, natural origin, porous structure, and excellent mechanical properties. Considering the significant advancements in the field of paper-based nucleic acid biosensors, this review aims to concentrate on the crucial elements of this field for the development of point-of-care sensors using paper. A concise overview is provided on the basic principles of different types of paper-based nucleic acid biosensors, with a specific focus on the notable advancements made in the past ten years. Concluding remarks and potential directions for future developments are addressed.