Editing Lab-on-a-chip (section)

=== Global challenges ===
For the chips to be used in areas with limited resources, many challenges must be overcome.  In developed nations, the most highly valued traits for diagnostic tools include speed, sensitivity, and specificity; but in countries where the healthcare infrastructure is less well developed, attributes such as ease of use and shelf life must also be considered.  The reagents that come with the chip, for example, must be designed so that they remain effective for months even if the chip is not kept in a [[climate control]]led environment.  Chip designers must also keep [[cost]], [[scalability]], and [[recyclability]] in mind as they choose what materials and fabrication techniques to use.