Chapter 14 - Quantum dots and hybrid structures as an innovative solution for bioimaging and diagnosis of viral infections

Abstract

Viral infections have gained enormous attention in medical research due to the ongoing pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The scientific interest is aiming to find an effective drug to fight against the disease due to the high infectivity and mutation capability of the virus. Moreover, the necessity to develop smart tests for fast, reliable, and easy detection is urgently required. In this context, nanotechnology and more precisely photoluminescent nanomaterials could bring an innovative solution. The manufacturing of such joins the knowledge and experience of physicists, biologists, material science engineers, who are able to interact within this interdisciplinary field, which leads to the production of novel nanohybrid structures with tailored photophysical properties. Quantum dots (QDs) were first used in bioimaging in 1998. These photoluminescent nanomaterials have advantageous properties that make them of higher potential than the conventional organic dyes. This review will explore the potential applications of QDs-based nanostructures to detect viral infections. Moreover, applications of photoluminescent probes in the viral bioimaging field is also presented.