A rapid

simple and visual lateral flow test strip(LFTS) based on gold nanostars(AuNSs) was fabricated for the detection of human immunodeficiency virus DNA(HIV-DNA) in this paper.The AuNSs as a color label for visual detection were synthesized by an environmentally friendly chemical method.The “sandwich structure” was utilized in the measurement process:the target was firstly captured with the DNA modified AuNSs

then trapped on the test line in accordance to the principle of complementary base pairing.Afterwards

the variation of the color on test line could be visually observed for qualitative and semi-quantitative analyses

and a portable strip reader recording the color intensity of the band was used for quantitative analysis.Under the optimum conditions

this AuNSs based LFTS strategy presented a good linear relationship for target DNA in the range of 0.2-50 nmol/L with a detection limit of 0.14 nmol/L

which sensitivity was 5 fold higher than that of the traditionanl gold nanoparticles test strip.Moreover

this LFTS exhibited a good anti-interference ability in the detection of HIV DNA in human serum

which meant it has a great potential in early diagnosis and treatment.