DNA-templated quantum dots and their applications in biosensors, bioimaging, and therapy

Over the past 10 years, DNA functionalized quantum dots (QDs) have attracted considerable attention in sensing and imaging of disease-relevant biological targets, as well as cancer therapy. Considerable efforts have been devoted to obtaining DNA functionalized QDs with enhanced stability and quantum yield. Here, we focus on a one-pot method, in which phosphorothioate-modified DNA is used as the co-ligand on the basis of the strong binding of sulfur and Cd²⁺. After a short summary of the preparation of DNA-templated QDs, versatile bioapplications based on the constructed ratiometric fluorescent probes, nanobeacons and multiple bottom-up assemblies will be discussed. A substantial part of the review will focus on these applications, ranging from small molecule, biological macromolecule, cancer cell and pathogen sensing to in vitro and in vivo imaging. Besides, drug or siRNA delivery based on DNA-templated QD assemblies will also be briefly discussed here.