Colloidal quantum materials for bio-applications; from passive to active functionalities

Colloidal quantum materials, of which semiconductor nanocrystals constitute a most robust example, display size, shape and composition tunable properties. In recent years they have been applied as fluorescent labels and as sensors in biology and their prospects for medical use has also been suggested. Further opportunities arise in the application of colloidal quantum materials for controlled modulation of different biological activities from the tissue to the molecular level. This versatility arises from the ability to manipulate the electrons and holes by suitable tailoring of the quantum material system. For fluorescence tagging, strong emission is essential, and typically achieved via careful design of the semiconductor nanocrystal architecture to enable maximal radiative recombination of the electron and hole through core/shell structures. For active functionalities on the other hand, charge separation is usually a necessary step requiring different design considerations.

We have demonstrated the active functionality by the ability to optically stimulate blind retinas attached to flexible carbon nanotube-semiconductor nanocrystals films. This work combined the advantages of the two nano-materials to create a wireless, light-sensitive film. Another approach for active modulation is by use of semiconductor-metal hybrid nanoparticles. Upon excitation of these nanoparticles they present photocatalysis activity and generate reactive oxygen species on-demand upon illumination. This was applied to modulate the activity of peroxidase enzymes by light with relevance to sensing applications, and also enables 3D printing of hydrogels in water.

The versatility of tailoring colloidal quantum materials presents the potential for flexible use in biomedical scenarios both for passive functionalities and also to modulate biological systems by light excitation of nanoparticles.

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