Quantum dot labeling advances biological research with unmatched fluorescence stability and multiplex imaging, offering precision and sensitivity in bioimaging applications while addressing biocompatibility challenges.
By Nidhi DhullReviewed by Lexie CornerJul 22 2024 Quantum dots , semiconducting nanoparticles with 1-100 nm size, have emerged as advanced tools in biological research due to their unique optical and physical properties.1,2 These powerful tools allow researchers to explore intricate molecular interactions and cellular processes in living organisms in exceptional detail.
Non-covalent binding, on the other hand, can be hydrophobic or electrostatic between biomolecules and ligands on the QD surface. QDs are often encapsulated in silica or biocompatible polymeric shells, then combined with biomolecules through terminal groups on the shell, improving their biocompatibility and fluorescence stability.1
Related StoriesA recent study in ACS Nano employed QDs as compact immunolabels for microtubule imaging and cell classification by conjugating them with specific antibodies. These QD-antibody conjugates allowed multispectral multiplexing through bright signals in the deep red and infrared and low steric hindrance. The proposed conjugates exhibited high functionality in cytological identification in fixed brain specimens.
QDs, on the other hand, offer high photobleaching-resistant fluorescence , allowing prolonged imaging sessions without signal degradation and providing consistent and high-quality images.1,2 Multi-target detection without signal interference and low background noise to produce stable and reproducible results in different biological environments is another advantage of QDs over traditional dyes.1
QDs also suffer from target-specificity issues. Modifying their ligands can increase target specificity, but this strategy can be problematic for in vivo applications, and minor off-target effects persist.2
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