Biocompatible Quantum Dots

About

Description Quantum dots are fluorescent nano-sized crystals with unique semi-conductor qualities and the ability to fluoresce for long periods of time. The main challenge is that quantum dots have hydrophobic organic ligands coating their surface, rendering them water-insoluble and thus unsuitable for biological applications. Our researchers have developed water-soluble quantum dots by encapsulating the crystals in phospholipid micelles, which is a simple chemical ligand with a hydrophobic head and a hydorophilic tail.  These novel quantum dots are compatible with a cell’s aqueous environment and are thus suitable for in vivo biological use.    Advantage Quantum dots have sustainable fluorescence and are less prone to photo-bleaching, in comparison to standard organic fluorophores. Quantum dots can be made in many colors (broader spectrum) simply by varying the size of the quantum dot. These quantum dots are water-soluble and are thus biocompatible. Quantum dots are stable, durable, and not toxic to living cells or to a living organism. Area of Application A significant improvement in in vivo imaging for research and diagnostic purposes. The development of markers by tagging individual cells or proteins. Stage of Development The micelle-encapsulated quantum dots have been successfully used in live frog embryos. Patent Information and References S. Patents 7,939,170 and 7,951,453 Dubertret, et al. 2002. In vivo imaging of quantum dots encapsulated in phospholipid micelles.  Science, 298:1759-1762.