Work

Compact Cysteine-Coated CdSe(ZnCdS) Quantum Dots for in Vivo Applications

Year: 2007

Type: article

Abstract: We have developed a versatile nanoparticle construct using a compact cysteine coating on a CdSe(ZnCdS) core(shell) nanocrystal (QD-Cys) that is biologically compatible, exceptionally compact, highly fluorescent, and easily functionalized. The small hydrodynamic diameter of QD-Cys ( approximately 6 nm) allows for renal clearance of these nanoparticles in rat models. Moreover, the ability to directly conjugate to QD-Cys opens up the possibility of functionalized nanocrystals for in vivo targeted imaging, in which small targeting molecules can be appended to QD-Cys, and unbound QDs can be rapidly cleared to achieve high signal/noise ratios and to reduce background toxicity.

Source: Journal of the American Chemical Society

DOI: 10.1021/ja073790m

Authors: Wenhao Liu, Hak Soo Choi, John P. Zimmer, Eiichi Tanaka, John V. Frangioni, Moungi Bawendi

Institutions: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Quantum Dots Synthesis And Properties

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Cancer Institute, National Institute of General Medical Sciences, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering