Luminescent nanomaterials for biological labelling

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

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Author(s)

  • Feng Wang
  • Wee Beng Tan
  • Yong Zhang
  • Xianping Fan
  • Minquan Wang

Detail(s)

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)R1-R13
Journal / PublicationNanotechnology
Volume17
Issue number1
Online published25 Nov 2005
Publication statusPublished - 14 Jan 2006
Externally publishedYes

Abstract

The use of labelling or staining agents has greatly assisted the study of complex biological interactions in the field of biology. In particular, fluorescent labelling of biomolecules has been demonstrated as an indispensable tool in many biological studies. Types of fluorescent labelling agents that are commonly used include conventional classes of organic fluorophores such as fluorescein and cyanine dyes, as well as newer types of inorganic nanoparticles such as QDs, and novel fluorescent latex/silica nanobeads. The newer classes of fluorescent labels are gaining increasing popularity in place of their predecessors due to their better optical properties such as possessing an enhanced photostability and a larger Stokes shift over conventional organic fluorophores, for example. This paper gives an overview of the recent advances on these luminescent nanomaterials with emphases on their optical characteristics that are crucial in fluorescence microscopy, both advantages and limitations in their usage as well as challenges they face, and puts forward the future direction of fluorescent labels in the area of biolabelling.

Citation Format(s)

Luminescent nanomaterials for biological labelling. / Wang, Feng; Tan, Wee Beng; Zhang, Yong et al.
In: Nanotechnology, Vol. 17, No. 1, 14.01.2006, p. R1-R13.

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review