Optical disc technology-enabled analytical devices: from hardware modification to digitized molecular detection

Beyond their essential applications in portable data storage for the past 30 years, optical discs and corresponding recording/reading technologies have been extensively explored with the ultimate goal of creating novel analytical tools for on-site chemical analysis and point-of-care (POC) medical diagnosis. In particular, the disc media (CD, DVD, and BD) are proven to be inexpensive and versatile substrate materials for the preparation of various biochips and microfluidic systems; conventional computer drives and disc players are widely adapted for biochip signal reading and microscopic imaging. Herein we provide an overview of such optical disc technology-enabled analytical devices, e.g. , integrated systems developed from specifically fabricated analog disks, modified optical drives, or adapted software algorithms. Beyond its essential media storage applications, optical disc technology has been extensively explored to create novel analytical devices and tools.