2. Development of more sensitive immunochromatographic "strip" tests

2.1 Test strip principle

The strip test is a simple detection system (very little handling required), fast (results obtained in under 30 min), inexpensive and suitable for use by non-specialists in the field. Test strips are generally made up of three zones fixed together on a plastic support: an absorption zone, a reaction zone (usually formed by a nitrocellulose membrane), and a sample deposition zone (usually made of glass fibers) (figure 1 a). In some strip tests, a tracer deposition zone is also present. Strips can be housed in plastic cassettes, as shown in figure 1 b. These cassettes make it easier to use the test, and in particular...