Quantum Dots for Targeted Tumor Imaging

Abstract

Molecular imaging is a key component of twenty-first century cancer management. In particular, quantum dot (QD) technology plays a key role in molecular imaging. Over the past decade, various QDs with core–shell and core–shell–shell structures with fluorescence emission from the UV to near-infrared region have been investigated by pioneering studies in chemical synthesis. Moreover, numerous studies on QDs for in vitro and in vivo molecular imaging led to the advancement of QD surface modification, coating, biocompatibility, sensitivity, multiplexing, targeting specificity, as well as important findings regarding their toxicity and clinical applicability. In this chapter, the goal is to provide the basics of QDs and their applications for diagnostic cancer imaging, as well as details of QD design and bioconjugation chemistries to target cancers. In addition, the recent literature on QD technology will be highlighted, and the benefits, challenges, limitations, and future scopes of QD technology, in both in vitro and in vivo tumor imaging applications, described. Keywords: type-I quantum dot; reverse type-I quantum dot; type-II quantum dot; surface modification; tumor; passive targeting; active targeting; molecular imaging