Chapter 12 - Quantum dots: A novel fluorescent probe for bioimaging and drug delivery applications

Abstract

Quantum dots (QDs) are novel class of fluorescent probe with nanometer dimensions. They exhibit excellent photoelectronic properties, including broad excitation spectra, tunable fluorescence, and multicolor fluorescence that are lacking in the traditional organic fluorescents. QS have wider applications in biosciences, including bioimaging, drug delivery and bimolecular nanosensors; they can be biofunctionalized for targeted fluorescence imaging of cells and organs. Recent developments have led to synthesis of low toxic QDs for in vivo applications. However, further research is needed to produce more biocompatibility and nontoxic nanoparticles using efficient and low-cost methods.