Hydrogel platform for aqueous two-phase concentration of a target to enhance its detection

A method of separating and/or concentrating an analyte, said method comprising:

• applying a sample comprising said analyte to a device comprising a hydrogel;
• and
• flowing an aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) through said hydrogel where said ATPS undergoes a phase separation thereby concentrating said analyte into a phase of said ATPS or concentrating said analyte into an interface between two phases of said ATPS.

An assay system for the detection and/or quantification of an analyte in a sample, said system comprising:

• a concentration component comprising a hydrogel that contains an aqueous two-phase system (ATPS);
• and
• a detection component configured to detect and/or quantify an analyte separated and/or concentrated by said concentration component, where said detection component is in fluid communication with said concentration component.