Selecting Your Lateral Flow Device Components

When designing a lateral flow assay (LFA), there are many factors to consider to achieve the most sensitive and specific results – and ultimately deliver an easily usable test that gives a correct, reliable diagnosis. In this guide we discuss the important factors you need to consider when selecting lateral flow device (LFD) components to design an LFD to fit your needs.

The very first point to consider is the type of sample you are hoping to test. If it is something like urine or water, then this may make life easier. However, if you aren’t lucky enough to be testing a fluid free from cells or other debris, then you will need to consider how you can prevent the test falling at the first hurdle and becoming clogged before the sample has even reached the membrane.