Abstract
Fluorophore molecules can be monitored by fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy, which are highly useful and widely used techniques in cell biology, biochemistry, and medicine (e.g., biomarker analysis, immunoassays, cancer diagnosis). Several fluorescent micro- and nanoparticle systems based on block copolymer micelles and cross-linked polymer networks, quantum dots, π-conjugated polymers, and dendrimers have been evaluated as optical imaging systems. In this review, we highlight recent advances in the construction of fluorescent single-chain nanoparticles (SCNPs), which are valuable artificial soft nano-objects with a small tunable size (as small as 3 nm). In particular, the main methods currently available to endow SCNPs with fluorescent properties are discussed in detail, showing illustrative examples.
Highlights
Fluorescence has long been used in biomarker analysis, immunoassays, and diagnostic imaging, including cancer diagnosis [1]
Several fluorescent micro- and nanoparticle systems based on block copolymer micelles and cross-linked polymer networks, quantum dots (QDs), π-conjugated polymers, and dendrimers have been evaluated as optical imaging systems
The limitations of conventional fluorophore molecules are mainly related to low brightness, unappropriated wavelength range, rapid photobleaching, and fluorescence self-quenching
Summary
Fluorescence has long been used in biomarker analysis, immunoassays, and diagnostic imaging, including cancer diagnosis [1]. When compared to the low absorption coefficients of individual organic fluorophore molecules, fluorescent micro- and nanoparticles often contain multiple fluorophore entities, leading to increased photoluminescent emission. Their encapsulation into the particle provides with improved stability and reduced photobleaching and toxicity, as illustrated by Raymo and co-workers in recent works [3,4]. Several fluorescent micro- and nanoparticle systems based on block copolymer micelles and cross-linked polymer networks, quantum dots (QDs), π-conjugated polymers, and dendrimers have been evaluated as optical imaging systems. The polymerization of monomers containing fluorescent moieties has been employed to prepare amphiphilic block copolymers (BCPs) which self-assemble in water to produce fluorescent micelles [6].
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