Quantum Dots as Theranostic Agents: Recent Advancements, Surface Modifications, and Future Applications

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Semiconductor nanoparticles, known as quantum dots (QDs), possess unique size, shape, and fluorescence characteristics.
• These properties enable shape-dependent optoelectronic capacities, making them suitable for advanced biomedical applications.
• Quantum dots are classified into types such as carbon-based, graphene-based, and cadmium-based, each with distinct structural variations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of quantum dots (QDs) as drug delivery agents and biosensors for rare disease treatments.
• To review advancements in quantum dot research for bioimaging, drug delivery, and gene transport.
• To discuss the challenges and future prospects of quantum dots in enhancing biomedical applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of in vitro and in vivo applications of quantum dots.
• Analysis of quantum dot properties including fluorescence, surface modifications, and biocompatibility.
• Examination of different classifications of quantum dots (carbon-based, graphene-based, cadmium-based).

Main Results:

• Quantum dots demonstrate significant progress in fluorescence bioimaging research.
• QDs can be utilized as agents for gene transport, drug delivery, and improving drug biocompatibility.
• Advancements in research have enabled in-depth examination of QDs for medicinal and clinical use.

Conclusions:

• Quantum dots hold substantial potential for increasing the efficacy of rare disease treatments.
• Their application as drug carriers and biosensors is a key area of development.
• Continued research into quantum dot surface modifications and biocompatibility will drive future biomedical innovations.