Dual-Mode Microfluidic Devices for Dopamine Detection

A world where detecting important biomarkers like dopamine is as simple as using a portable device. Scientists have designed a special tool called microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) that can do just that. These μPADs have a clever folded structure that lets the analyte solution flow vertically through them. They have two layers: one for color changes and one for electrical signals. The magic ingredient here is a special combination of nanocomposites called CuS@Ag2S. These tiny particles are super good at recognizing dopamine both by changing color and by producing electrical signals. The color change happens because of a special reaction that turns a violet color. As for the electrical part, silver sulfide in the nanocomposites helps amplify the signals. These μPADs can detect dopamine in two ways: color changes for amounts between 2-50 microM, and electrical signals for amounts between 0. 5-70 microM. They are super sensitive, with a detection limit of 0. 675 microM for color and 0. 086 microM for electricity. This new way of detecting dopamine is portable, reliable, and easy to see, offering a great alternative to traditional methods.