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Quantum Dot‐based Energy Transfer: Perspectives and Potential for Applications in Photodynamic Therapy
Author(s) -
Samia Anna C. S.,
Dayal Smita,
Burda Clemens
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
photochemistry and photobiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.818
H-Index - 131
eISSN - 1751-1097
pISSN - 0031-8655
DOI - 10.1562/2005-05-11-ir-525
Subject(s) - quantum dot , photodynamic therapy , nanotechnology , singlet oxygen , energy transfer , photosensitizer , quantum , materials science , optoelectronics , physics , chemistry , engineering physics , quantum mechanics , organic chemistry , oxygen
Quantum dots have emerged as an important class of material that offers great promise to a diverse range of applications ranging from energy conversion to biomedicine. Here, we review the potential of using quantum dots and quantum dot conjugates as sensitizers for photodynamic therapy (PDT). The photophysics of singlet oxygen generation in relation to quantum dot‐based energy transfer is discussed and the possibility of using quantum dots as photosensitizer in PDT is assessed, including their current limitations to applications in biological systems. The biggest advantage of quantum dots over molecular photosensitizers that comes into perspective is their tunable optical properties and surface chemistries. Recent developments in the preparation and photophysical characterization of quantum dot energy transfer processes are also presented in this review, to provide insights on the future direction of quantum dot‐based photosensitization studies from the viewpoint of our ongoing research.