Versatile silicon nanoparticles with potential uses as photoluminiscent sensors and photosensitizers

摘要: Silicon nanoparticles (including silicon clusters and 1–4 nm size nanocrystals, SiCs) combine – dependent photoluminescence, the capacity for singlet oxygen superoxide radical anion generation, richness of surface derivatization. Surface modifications as coating/linking with folate, antibodies, adjuvants, a plethora other substances may lead to an increased aqueous solubility, stability, biocompatibility, targeting potential, circulation time in biological systems. Size, synthetic procedures derivatization/oxidation strongly affect particles efficiency reactive species photosensitization interaction small molecules entities. Thus, through intelligent design it is possible develop multifunctional potential applications imaging, diagnosis, therapy. Herein, we present discuss properties that make SiCs photosensitizers uses describe most widely used synthesis functionalization order help understanding basics photoluminescent guide researchers aiming find new based on these particles.