Quantum dots as biomarker

Abstract

Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor nanocrystals with unique optical and electronic properties. They have distinct advantages over traditional fluorescent organic dyes in chemical and biological studies in terms of tunable emission spectra, signal brightness, photostability, and can be conjugated to a wide range of biological targets, including proteins, antibodies, and nucleic acid probes. Currently, the major type of QDs is the heavy metal containing II-VI, IV-IV, or III-V QDs. The new generations of QDs, have far-reaching potential for the study of intracellular processes at the single-molecule level, high resolution cellular imaging, long-term in vivo observation of cell trafficking, tumor targeting, and diagnostics. However, with respect to medical applications, caution must be exercised with QDs due to their toxic components. Development of suitable health and safety regulations is necessary for commercialization. Despite of these difficulties, QDs appear to be too valuable to nanomedecine to dismiss, and will eventually come essential into practical use.