Development of more sensitive immunochromatographic "strip" tests
Highly sensitive biological detection test by means of new fluorescent tracers

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 1a). In some strip tests, a tracer deposition zone is also present. Strips can be housed in plastic cassettes, as shown in figure 1b. These cassettes make it easier to use the test, and in particular to deposit the sample.