Quantum dots (QDs) are nanometer-sized luminescent semiconductor nanocrystals. Their unique optical properties, such as high brightness, long-term stability, simultaneous detection of multiple signals and tunable emission spectra, make them appealing as potential diagnostic and therapeutic systems in oncology. Preparing the functional QDs by modifying bio-molecules such as antibody will have potential value for cancer diagnosis and treatment. This paper summarized the recent progress of promising application of QDs in cancer diagnosis and therapy, from identifying molecular targets, to drug delivery and therapy; from limitations of toxicity issues related to QDs in living organisms to multifunctional design and development. Finally, the promising applications of QDs are also discussed.
Animals ; Diagnostic Imaging ; trends ; Drug Delivery Systems ; trends ; Humans ; Nanomedicine ; methods ; Nanoparticles ; therapeutic use ; Neoplasms ; diagnosis ; therapy ; Quantum Dots

Optical imaging techniques use visual and near infrared rays. Despite their considerably poor penetration depth, they are widely used due to their safe and intuitive properties and potential for intraoperative usage. Optical imaging techniques have been actively investigated for clinical imaging of lymph nodes and lymphatic system. This article summarizes a variety of optical tracers and techniques used for lymph node and lymphatic imaging, and reviews their clinical applications. Emerging new optical imaging techniques and their potential are also described.
Contrast Media/diagnostic use ; Fluorescent Dyes/diagnostic use ; Humans ; Lymph Nodes/pathology/*radiography ; Lymphatic System/*pathology ; Lymphography ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; *Optical Imaging ; Positron-Emission Tomography ; Quantum Dots/diagnostic use ; Spectroscopy, Near-Infrared