Abstract
Compared with downconverters (organic dyes and quantum dots), upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) can switch low energy near-infrared (NIR) photons into high energy UV and/or visible photons with pronounced stability. Due to the fast advancement of colloidal synthesis techniques, lanthanide-doped UCNPs can be fabricated with narrow distribution and modulated physical behaviors. These unique characteristics allow them to outperformconventional bio-imaging materials and offer a versatile platform for biological applications. Here, we discuss several approaches to the synthesis and application ofUCNPsas imaging probes, delivery carriers and therapy sensitizers.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Perspectives in Micro- and Nanotechnology for Biomedical Applications |
| Publisher | World Scientific Publishing Co. |
| Pages | 37-64 |
| Number of pages | 28 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9781783269617 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781783269600 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Jan 1 2016 |
| Externally published | Yes |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- General Engineering
- General Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics
- General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology
- General Medicine