Nanomaterial-driven Lateral Flow Immunoassay: Technological Development and Application

In clinical testing, traditional research has focused on developing large analytical instruments capable of processing high sample volumes with fully automated and highly sensitive measurements. In recent years, however, there has been increasing demand for analytical reagents for point-of-care testing (POCT), which do not require a specific location or professional operators. This trend is exemplified by the lateral flow immunoassay (LIFA), favored for its simple operation, rapid results, and user-friendly design. The fiber membrane-based structure of LIFA provides both cost-effectiveness and ease of disposal, addressing key concerns related to testing budgets and environments. Despite its compact size, LIFA incorporates multiple technological innovations, reflecting years of research and development. Current studies focus on advancing LIFA technology, paving the way for next-generation diagnostic devices. These advancements aim to redefine testing convenience and enhance the capacity to respond effectively to urgent public health challenges. The future of LIFA is gradually unfolding, with deeper integration into daily health management and emergency response systems. In this review, we present the historical development of LIFA and several cutting-edge LIFA technologies, including gold nanoparticle-based, magnetic, photothermal, fluorescent, and surface-enhanced Raman scattering approaches, aiming to inspire future LIFA research and development.