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[Quantum dots and their applications in cancer research].

Abstract
Quantum dots are semiconductor nanocrystals with physical dimensions smaller than the exciton Bohr radius. As their fluorescence emissions are size-tunable, we can acquire any spectrum from ultraviolet (UV) to near-infrared by changing the particles' radiuses. The large Stokes shifts of quantum dots can be used to further improve detection sensitivity. The luminescence intensity is high and stable. Single quantum dots have longer excited state lifetimes, and they appear 10-20 times brighter than organic fluorescent dyes. And they have good biocompatibility because quantum dots with appropriate shells don't interfere with physiological processes, such as growth, development, signaling and motility. With the development of optical labeling and imaging technology, many present conventional biomedical methods have limitations in microcosmic direct real-time researches of bio-molecular interactions and early diagnosis of malignant tumors. The invention of quantum dots and their biomedical applications make them as good markers for tumor cell tracing and targeting in cancer research, such as prostate cancer, mammary cancer, cervical cancer, basal cell carcinoma, liver cancer, and melanoma. The current research is focused on tumor markers imaging and molecular interaction based on tangible carriers such as cells and tissues. The next research orientation would be to tap the potential of this highly sensitive technology to image tumor biomarkers in serum and other body fluids, so as to increase the early diagnosis rate of malignant tumors.
AuthorsLiang-Dong Chen, Yan Li, Hong-Yin Yuan, Dai-Wen Pang
JournalAi zheng = Aizheng = Chinese journal of cancer (Ai Zheng) Vol. 25 Issue 5 Pg. 651-6 (May 2006) China
PMID16687092 (Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)
Chemical References
  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Neoplasm Proteins
Topics
  • Animals
  • Biomarkers, Tumor (metabolism)
  • Diagnostic Imaging (trends)
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement (methods)
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence, Multiphoton
  • Molecular Probe Techniques
  • Neoplasm Proteins (metabolism)
  • Neoplasms (diagnosis, metabolism)
  • Quantum Dots
  • Semiconductors

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