Fluorescent carbon dots as intracellular imaging probes

Fluorescent carbon dot has emerged as promising alternative of conventionally known quantum dot or molecular probe as potential intracellular imaging probe. In particular, <10 nm size, tunable and bright fluorescence of carbon dot deserve the application potential as intracellular imaging probe. However, synthesis of carbon dot with narrow particle size distribution, preparation of high-quality red/near-infrared emitting carbon dot and appropriate design of functional carbon dot for subcellular targeting are most critical issues. This advanced review focus on the application potential of fluorescent carbon dot as intracellular imaging probe. At first, we briefly discuss different types of fluorescent carbon dots and origin of their fluorescence. Next, we focus on surface chemistry and functionalization which are relevant to intracellular probe development. Finally we have summarized various types of intracellular nanoprobes that are developed from fluorescence carbon dot. This article is categorized under: Diagnostic Tools > in vitro Nanoparticle-Based Sensing.