Abstract: This disclosure describes an apparatus for separation and detection of target molecules in a liquid sample containing the target molecules and non-target molecules comprising at least one absorption area, a bibulous carrier defining a first liquid transport path in fluid contact with at least one absorption area including at least one reaction area upstream of the at least one absorption area wherein the reaction area includes a capture reagent and a sample area upstream of the reaction area wherein the liquid sample when applied to sample area is transported by capillary action past the reaction area where at least a portion of the target molecules may be bound to the capture reagent to permit detection of the target molecules. The liquid sample is then transported by capillary action on to the absorption area.