Design of multifunctional liposome-quantum dot hybrid nanocarriers and their biomedical application. (14th September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Qu, Wenjing; Zuo, Wenbao; Li, Na; Hou, Yanhui; Song, Zhihua; Gou, Guojing; Yang, Jianhong
• Is Part Of: Journal of drug targeting. Volume 25:Number 8(2017)
• Page Start: 661
• Page End: 672
• Publication Date: 2017-09-14
• Subjects: Quantum dots -- liposome -- targeting -- theranostics -- nanostructures -- multiplexed biosensors -- biomedical application; Drug delivery systems -- Periodicals; Drug Delivery Systems; Vehicles; Drug Administration Routes; Drug Evaluation; 615.7
• DOI: 10.1080/1061186X.2017.1323334
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1061-186X

Abstract

Abstract: Luminescent semiconductor nanocrystals, also known as quantum dots (QDs), have rich surface chemistry and unique optical properties that make them useful as probes or carriers for molecular diagnostics and therapeutics. However, their potential toxicity and instability in biological environments have puzzled scientific researchers. Much research effort has been devoted to encapsulation of QDs with liposomal hybrids to make them versatile nanocarriers for simultaneous therapeutics and diagnostics (theranostics) and considerable progress has been made over recent years. We provide an overview of the use of QD–liposome complexes (QLCs) for imaging applications, in particular applications in theranostics. More specifically, the design considerations, intracellular uptake and tissue-specific targeting of QLCs are highlighted. Current findings of QLCs for theranostics are discussed. We also discuss the challenges and highlight future directions for applications of liposome–QD hybrid nanocarriers in the biomedical arena.