Multiplexed bio-imaging using cadmium telluride quantum dots synthesized by mathematically derived process parameters...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor nanocrystals with size-tunable optical properties.
• Achieving monodispersity in QD size is crucial for precise emission spectra.
• Controlling reaction kinetics is key to synthesizing monodispersed QDs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a method for reproducible synthesis of monodispersed cadmium telluride (CdTe) quantum dots.
• To utilize dimensional analysis for precise control over QD synthesis parameters.
• To demonstrate the application of synthesized QDs in multiplexed bio-imaging.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a continuous flow active microreactor system.
• Employed dimensional analysis to establish precise control over reaction variables.
• Synthesized polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-coated CdTe QDs.
• Conjugated QDs with organelle-specific antibodies for bio-imaging.

Main Results:

• Synthesized monodispersed CdTe QDs (5-15 nm) with quantum efficiency of 61.5% and photostability of 44%.
• Demonstrated biocompatibility of PDMS-coated QDs (P-QDs).
• Successfully performed multiplexed *in vitro* imaging in NIH 3T3 cells and *in vivo* imaging of zebrafish cardiac tissue.

Conclusions:

• Continuous flow microreactors coupled with dimensional analysis enable reproducible synthesis of high-quality, monodispersed QDs.
• Synthesized P-QDs are suitable for targeted bio-imaging applications.
• The developed method offers a robust platform for QD synthesis and bio-imaging.