Advancing biosensing and bioimaging with quantum technologies: From fundamental science to medical applications

Abstract

Deep understanding of biological systems and their effective applications, particularly in ultrasensitive sensing for early diagnosis and high-resolution imaging, is critical across diverse fields, including healthcare, environmental monitoring, food safety, and pharmaceuticals. Conventional methods for monitoring biosystems often face challenges due to the limited quantity and small size of biomolecules, as well as low signal-to-noise ratio. In contrast, quantum systems leverage quantum-mechanical properties to enable ultrasensitive measurements and high-resolution imaging, effectively overcoming the limitations of conventional techniques. These advanced systems provide profound insights into biological processes, facilitate ultrasensitive bio-detection, and advance bio-imaging technologies. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of quantum detection, defining its key characteristics and discussing examples of quantum systems applied in biological contexts, with a particular focus on sensing and imaging. Specifically, we examine nitrogen-vacancy centers in nanodiamonds, quantum dots, and emerging approaches involving strong coupling and quantum tunneling. Finally, we explore the practical applications and future directions of quantum-biomedical technologies, highlighting their transformative potential in advancing biological research and diagnostics, with a focus on integrating quantum technologies with digital tools.