Distance-based α-amylase biosensor fabricated with amylopectin-coated mesoporous membrane

Paper-based biosensors are widely employed in point-of-care testing (POCT) due to their convenience, portability, low cost, and ease of use. This study reports an integrated distance-based paper biosensor fabricated with a mesoporous membrane coated with stimuli-responsive polymer. The detection of α-amylase (AMY) using amylopectin-coated mesoporous membrane is demonstrated as an example. After introducing the AMY solution, it is observed that the aqueous solution flows along the paper strip due to AMY-catalyzed hydrolysis of amylopectin. The flow distance is proportional to the concentration of AMY with a detection limit as low as 4 mU/mL. In addition, the detection of AMY is demonstrated in human serum. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of acarbose on AMY is evaluated. This reagent-free and disposable biosensor allows single-step rapid detection of the analyte. This approach is very promising for the development of user-friendly, equipment-free, and cost-effective biosensors with remarkable sensitivity and excellent selectivity for disease diagnosis and hypoglycemic drug screening.