Point-of-Care Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR) Systems for Medical Diagnostics

Abstract The growing demands for general healthcare and medical treatments have prompted the need for innovative diagnostic techniques. Ensuring proper and timely identification of invading pathogens remains at the forefront of this technological growth, paving the way for administering effective medication. Through the development of point-of-care (POC) systems, convenient and accessible diagnostic tools have emerged in recent years. Combined with localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) systems, the overall sensitivity, specificity, and applicability of these POC devices have undergone transformations, being able to reach a greater breadth of patients. This review aims to highlight the current leading POC systems that incorporate nanoplasmonic sensing strategies by providing an overview of detection mechanisms, possible applications, and addressing ongoing challenges. The work presented herein focuses on the integration of these LSPR technologies specifically, as opposed to existing reviews offering a broad look across plasmonic systems in healthcare. Additionally, future extensions of LSPR devices are explored for potential innovative solutions to advance medical diagnostics and effectively meet clinical demands.