Functional carbon nanodots for multiscale imaging and therapy

As an emerging class of carbon nanomaterials, carbon dots (CDs) have garnered many researchers' interests in the past decade due to their excellent biocompatibility, replete surface functional groups, water dispersibility, and unique photoluminescence. These extraordinary properties have opened new avenues for their advanced application in cell labeling, bioimaging, drug delivery, sensors, and energy-related devices. In this paper, we critically review recent advances in the synthetic strategies and the application of CDs for biological purposes, specifically, imaging and therapy. Finally, a perspective has been given on the potential challenges facing the translation of these materials from the bench to the market. (C) 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.