Ion-selective quantum dots
US8114662B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 31, 2007 |
| Grant date | Feb 14, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 26, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S977/774
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The invention provides ion-selective sensors comprising quantum dots capable of selectively measuring ions, e.g., Na+, K+, Cl−, etc., in various environments, including in the cytosol of a living cell. Quantum dots are attractive probes for microscopy due to their photophysical advantages over fluorescent dyes, including prolonged photostability, brightness and quantum efficiency. In certain embodiments, a sensor comprises one or more quantum dots, a pH-sensitive dye, and optionally an ion-selective component such as an ionophore. These elements may, for example, be disposed in a polymer matrix. In certain embodiments, the sensors may detect ionic analytes by selective ion extraction by the polymer, thereby inducing a pH change within the sensor which in turn changes the absorbance of the pH-sensitive dye. The change of absorbance may in turn attenuate the intensity of detectable emissions, e.g., fluorescence, from the quantum dot by directly absorbing its fluorescence emission.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.