Clustering of CdSe/CdS Quantum Dot/Quantum Rods into Micelles Can Form Bright, Non-blinking, Stable, and Biocompatible Probes

Langmuir. 2015 Sep 1;31(34):9441-7. doi: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.5b01570. Epub 2015 Aug 18.

Abstract

We investigate clustered CdSe/CdS quantum dots/quantum rods, ranging from single to multiple encapsulated rods within amphiphilic diblock copolymer micelles, by time-resolved optical spectroscopy. The effect of the clustering and the cluster size on the optical properties is addressed. The clusters are bright and stable and show no blinking while retaining the fundamental optical properties of the individual quantum dots/quantum rods. Cell studies show neither unspecific uptake nor morphological changes of the cells, despite the increased sizes of the clusters.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biocompatible Materials / chemistry*
  • Cadmium Compounds / chemistry*
  • Micelles*
  • Particle Size
  • Polymers / chemistry
  • Quantum Dots*
  • Selenium Compounds / chemistry*
  • Sulfides / chemistry*
  • Surface Properties
  • Surface-Active Agents / chemistry

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Cadmium Compounds
  • Micelles
  • Polymers
  • Selenium Compounds
  • Sulfides
  • Surface-Active Agents
  • cadmium sulfide
  • cadmium selenide