title: Surface functionalization of quantum dots for biological applications.
abstract: Quantum dots are a group of inorganic nanomaterials exhibiting exceptional optical and electronic properties which impart distinct advantages over traditional fluorescent organic dyes in terms of tunable broad excitation and narrow emission spectra, signal brightness, high quantum yield and photo-stability. Aqueous solubility and surface functionalization are the most common problems for QDs employed in biological research. This review addresses the recent research progress made to improve aqueous solubility, functionalization of biomolecules to QD surface and the poorly understood chemistry involved in the steps of bio-functionalization of such nanoparticles.
authors.affiliation: Battelle Science and Technology India Pvt. Ltd., 302, Panchshil Technology Park, Hinjewadi, Pune 411057, India. Electronic address: ajay.karakoti@battelle-india.com.
authors.forename: Ajay Singh
authors.initials: AS
authors.lastname: Karakoti
authors.affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Ahmedabad University, University Road, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India.
authors.forename: Ritesh
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Shukla
authors.affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Ahmedabad University, University Road, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India.
authors.forename: Rishi
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Shanker
authors.affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Ahmedabad University, University Road, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India. Electronic address: sanjay.singh@ahduni.edu.in.
authors.forename: Sanjay
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Singh
mesh_terms: D004337:Drug Carriers; D006801:Humans; D008024:Ligands; D008956:Models, Chemical; D055668:Photochemical Processes; D045663:Quantum Dots / Q000737:chemistry*; D012995:Solubility; D013499:Surface Properties
chemical_list: D004337:Drug Carriers; D008024:Ligands
keywords: Covalent coupling; Imaging; Quantum dots; Silanization; Surface modifications