Quantum dots in microscopy and cytometry: immunostaining applications

Semiconductor quantum dots (QDots) have unique narrow emission spectra, high fluorescence efficiency, minimal photobleaching, and simultaneous excitation by multiple light sources. They have been successfully established for imaging and for monitoring a variety of biological functions including cell tracking, live-cell imaging, and in situ hybridization. However, intracellular QDot applications have just begun to materialize. Focusing on QDot nanoparticles,this review attempts to illustrate interconnectivity between imaging applications of QDot nanocrystals and the development of immunostaining applications of quantum dots in immunohistochemistry, and flow and imaging cytometry. The relative novelty of QDots presents problems in their practical use, and advice for transfer experiments between the microscope and the flow cytometer will be discussed.