Minimizing nonspecific cellular binding of quantum dots with hydroxyl-derivatized surface coatings

Brad A. Kairdolf, Michael C. Mancini, Andrew M. Smith, Shuming Nie

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Quantum-dot (QD) nanocrystals are promising fluorescent probes for multiplexed staining assays in biological applications. However, nonspecific QD binding to cellular membranes and proteins remains a limiting factor in detection sensitivity and specificity. Here we report a new class of hydroxyl (-OH)-coated QDs for minimizing nonspecific cellular binding and for overcoming the bulky size problems encountered with previous surface coatings. The hydroxylated QDs are prepared from carboxylated (-COOH) dots via a hydroxylation and cross-linking process. With a compact hydrodynamic size of 13-14 nm (diameter), they are highly fluorescent (>60% quantum yields) and stable under both basic and acidic conditions. By using human cancer cells, we have evaluated their superior nonspecific binding properties against that of carboxylated, protein-coated, and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-coated QDs. Quantitative cellular staining data indicate that the hydroxylated QDs result in a dramatic 140-fold reduction in nonspecific binding relative to that of carboxylated dots and a still significant 10-20-fold reduction relative to that of PEG- and protein-coated dots.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)3029-3034
Number of pages6
JournalAnalytical Chemistry
Volume80
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 15 2008
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Analytical Chemistry

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