Application of multiplex pathogen detection technology: achievements and prospects

INTRODUCTION. Infectious disease pathogens exhibit species diversity and genomic complexity, making their rapid and accurate combined detection a major challenge today. Microfluidic technologies, with their advantages such as miniaturization, functional integration, high throughput, and reproducibility, demonstrate enormous potential in this field. OBJECTIVE. To systematically summarize the latest advances in multifunctional microfluidic diagnostic devices, explore the feasibility of their use in the presence of multiple pathogens, as well as technical limitations and promising areas for their   clinical application. MATERIALS AND METHODS. This article reviews multifunctional detection devices based on common technological approaches such as electrochemical sensors, optical sensors, immunosensors, and paper-based microfluidic platforms, with a particular focus on innovative methods for using microfluidic nucleic acid amplification technology to improve detection sensitivity. RESULTS. Various types of microfluidic devices have significantly improved the efficiency and integration of pathogen detection. Thanks to innovative solutions, microfluidic nucleic acid amplification technology has demonstrated significant potential for optimizing sensitivity. However, cross-reactivity between analytes remains a key factor affecting the effectiveness of combined testing. DISCUSSION. Despite significant technological advances, collaborative pathogen detection still faces challenges related to the diversity, complexity, and reliability of practical applications. Future developments should focus on improving the platform’s versatility, stability, and cost-effectiveness. CONCLUSION. Multiplexed microfluidic detection technology has already achieved significant success in infectious disease diagnostics and holds broad clinical application potential. Further technological development is key to implementing these technologies into clinical practice.

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