DNA hybridization detection with blue luminescent quantum dots and dye-labeled single-stranded DNA

A simple DNA sensing platform was developed based on the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between blue-luminescent CdTe QDs and dye-labeled ssDNA. A cationic polymer acts as a bridge to bring the donor to acceptor together and achieves the high FRET efficiency. The hybridization event was recognized by the different FRET efficiencies due to different interaction abilities of single-stranded and double-stranded DNA with the polymer. This platform provides a homogeneous DNA assay that takes advantage of the fluorescence detection method, but with minimal DNA modification.