Biomedical applications of glyconanoparticles based on quantum dots

Background: Quantum dots (QDs) are outstanding nanomaterials of great interest to life sciences. Their conjugation versatility added to unique optical properties, highlight these nanocrystals as very promising fluorescent probes. Among uncountable new nanosystems, in the last years, QDs conjugated to glycans or lectins have aroused a growing attention and their application as a tool to study biological and functional properties has increased. Scope of review: This review describes the strategies, reported in the literature, to conjugate QDs to lectins or carbohydrates, providing valuable information for the elaboration, improvement, and application of these nanoconjugates. It also presents the main applications of these nanosystems in glycobiology, such as their potential to study microorganisms, the development of diseases such as cancer, as well as to develop biosensors. Major conclusions: The development of glyconanoparticles based on QDs emerged in the last decade. Many works reporting the conjugation of QDs with carbohydrates and lectins have been published, using different strategies and reagents. These bioconjugates enabled studies that are very sensitive and specific, with potential to detect and elucidate the glycocode expressed in various normal or pathologic conditions. General significance: Produce a quick reference source over the main advances reached in the glyconano-technology using QDs as fluorescent probes.