The use of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in microfluidics based diagnostics is a classic case of micro-, nano- and bio-technology coming together to design extremely controllable, reproducible, and scalable nano and micro 'on-chip bio sensing systems.' In this review, applications of MNPs in microfluidics ranging from molecular diagnostics and immunodiagnostics to clinical uses have been examined. In addition, microfluidic mixing and capture of analytes using MNPs, and MNPs as carriers in microfluidic devices has been investigated. Finally, the challenges and future directions of this upcoming field have been summarized. The use of MNP-based microfluidic devices, will help in developing decentralized or 'point of care' testing globally, contributing to affordable healthcare, particularly, for middle- and low-income developing countries.
Keywords: diagnostics; lab-on-a-chip; magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs); microfluidics; miniaturization; point of care.