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Review of quantum dot technologies for cancer detection and treatment
The worlds of medical and biological research are abuzz with the
promises offered by nanoparticles known as semiconductor quantum dots.
These Quantum Dots (QDs) have unique optical and electronic properties
that make them suitable for breakthrough treatments such as the
detection and destruction of cancer cells.
Just released on the nanotechnology website AZoNano, is a
comprehensive review of the latest literature and studies into Quantum
Dots. The review by Sandeep Kumar Vashist, Rupinder Tewari, Ram Prakash
Bajpai, Lalit Mohan Bharadwaj and Roberto Raiteri, researchers from a
range of Italian and Indian universities and research organisations,
has been released as part of AZoJono*, the open access AZo Journal of
Nanotechnology Online.
With a focus on the use of QDs in cancer detection and treatment,
the review includes a detailed examination of Quantum Dot advantages,
their synthesis, properties and applications, toxic effects, use in
imaging and analysis plus Quantum Dot drug delivery systems. The paper
also outlines some early success in the detection and treatment of
breast cancer.
The paper concludes with a quick look at what the future may hold
for Quantum Dots in providing new insights into understanding the
pathophysiology of cancer and real time imaging and screening of
tumours.
The level of details provided in this valuable review paper could
easily make up a chapter in an expensive text book. However, this paper
is available to access free of charge in its entirety at http://www.azonano.com/Details.asp?ArticleID=1726
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