Magnetic nanovesicles as multilabel systems in lateral flow immunoassays

Lateral flow assays (LFA) have been widely used for rapid and low-cost detection of biomolecules in a variety of fields. In this work, we have developed a LFA for potential biomarkers of colorectal cancer (CRC) in Extracellular vesicles (EVs), by using a novel multilabel system based on encapsulated iron oxide (IONs) nanoparticles. The IONs were prepared by a microemulsion mehod, and their encapsulation was more efficient using the thin film hydration layer method than by ethanol injection. The performance of the encapsulated particles as detecting labels was compared with that achieved using the conventional gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Our results indicate that encapsulated IONs increased the sensitivity by means of their nanozyme effect towards the oxidation of hydrogen peroxide. The nanovesicles encapsulating IONs could improve their safety handling and sample preparation, and they could be useful at other sensing fields. Created with BioRender.com • Lateral flow assay for colorectal cancer potential biomarkers detection was developed. • Novel multilabel system based on encapsulated iron oxide (ION) nanoparticles was used. • SPIONs were prepared by microemulsion mehod and encapsulated in size tuned nanovesicles. • Encapsulation was more efficient using the thin film hydration layer method. • Encapsulated particles performance as detecting labels was compared with AuNPs.