Microfluidic paper-based photoelectrochemical sensors for point-of-care testing

To meet the growing medical demands, there is an urgent need for rapid, convenient, and flexible point-of-care testing (POCT) technologies. Recent advancements in multifunctional, biocompatible, and flexible microfluidic paper-based photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensors have significantly enhanced POCT applications. This review systematically discusses the latest progress in portable paper-based PEC sensors, addressing key challenges in design, manufacturing, and application. It explores techniques for paper functionalization and signal amplification to improve performance across various applications. Specific uses of paper-based PEC sensors in safety protection, environmental monitoring, and biomedical diagnosis are discussed. Overall, this work provides insights into the future opportunities and challenges for paper-based PEC platforms in POCT, offering a valuable perspective for researchers developing portable and cost-effective solutions to advance POCT for the benefit of humanity.