Quantum imaging-based nanobiosensors: Pioneering point-of-care approach for early diagnosis of environmental-linked breast cancer

Abstract

Early detection is paramount for successful treatment outcomes in cancer diagnosis. Among women across the globe, breast cancer (BC) ranks as one of the deadliest forms of cancer. Prolonged exposure to numerous environmental pollutants has been linked to epigenetic reprogramming, which entails changes in the expression patterns of non-coding RNAs. These alterations have been strongly linked to an increased risk of developing BC. Women are confronted with hazardous smoke from polluting stoves and fuels for longer as they often perform home duties such as cooking. Inefficient combustion emits black carbon (sooty particles), which enters the bloodstream and is strongly connected to an elevated risk of BC. The use of several analytical methods, such as real-time polymerase chain reaction, microarray, and sequencing, has numerous disadvantages, such as high expenses, limitations in sensitivity, and lack of accuracy. However, the emergence of quantum dots (QDs), nanoscale semiconductor particles with unique optical properties, and the development of quantum imaging-based sensors offer a glimpse into the future of medical technology. These sensors have the potential to completely change the medical field by offering highly precise, non-invasive, and reliable techniques for early diagnosis. Our article delves into the intricacies of QDs imaging-based sensors, their applications in BC detection, and their transformative impact on improving patient care. In recent years, the confluence of quantum science and diagnostic imaging has opened new avenues for BC diagnosis. The present state of quantum imaging-based BC diagnosis sensors is examined in this article, along with potential future developments with the help of artificial intelligence.