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Updated: Jan 30, 2026

Production and Targeting of Monovalent Quantum Dots
Published on: October 23, 2014
Solar-powered quantum dot-biocatalyst biohybrids for semi-artificial photosynthesis: Advances in interfacial design
Xuenan Shui1, Chen Deng2, Xiaoman He1
1Key Laboratory of Energy Thermal Conversion and Control of Ministry of Education, School of Energy and Environment, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China.
Abstract:
Semi-artificial photosynthesis, integrating biocatalysts with photosensitive materials to enable self-photosensitization in non-photosynthetic microorganisms, is a rapidly evolving interdisciplinary field for solar-driven energy and chemical production using air, water, and sunlight. However, the efficiency of such constructed biocatalysts is often impeded by the limited biocompatibility, prevalent biotoxicity, and narrow spectral response associated with photosensitive materials. Quantum dots (QDs), zero-dimensional crystals, exhibit favorable photoexcitation properties and enhanced biocompatibility, providing essential reducing equivalents for microbial metabolisms. This review examines recent advances in semi-artificial photosynthesis, focusing on the self-assembly of microorganisms in conjunction with QDs. It highlights the biocompatible, directional design of QDs and explores the underlying mechanisms of electron and energy transfer within the microbe-QDs complexes. By leveraging the synergies of solar absorption and biocatalytic activity, this review discusses the future trajectory and potential improvements in semi-artificial photosynthesis, offering a paradigm-shifting approach to sustainable solar energy utilization. The solar-powered QDs-biocatalyst biohybrids for semi-artificial photosynthesis are projected to emerge as a transformative technology in advanced energy production.
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