Quantum Dot Nanotechnology for Prostate Cancer Research

Abstract

Quantum dots (QDs), tiny light-emitting particles on the nanometer scale, are emerging as a new class of fluorescent probes for cancer cell imaging and molecular profiling. In comparison with organic dyes and fluorescent proteins, QDs have unique optical and electronic properties, such as size-tunable light emission, improved signal brightness, resistance against photobleaching, and simultaneous excitation of multiple fluorescence colors. These properties are most promising for improving the sensitivity of molecular imaging and quantitative cellular analysis by one to two orders of magnitude. Recent advances have led to multifunctional nanoparticle probes that are highly bright and stable under complex biological conditions. A new structural design involves encapsulating luminescent QDs with amphiphilic block copolymers, and linking the polymer coating to tumortargeting ligands and drug-delivery functionalities. Polymer-encapsulated QDs are essentially nontoxic to cells and animals, but their long-term in vivo toxicity and degradation need more studies that are careful. Nonetheless, bioconjugated QDs have raised new possibilities for ultrasensitive and multiplexed imaging of molecular targets in living cells, animal models, and, possibly, in human patients.