Quantum dots are highly fluorescent nanocrystals that have wide absorption spectra, narrow emission spectra and come in a variety of sizes and colors giving them excellent potential as biomarkers. Quantum dots were synthesized with cadmium selenide cores and coated with zinc sulfide shells.  Ligands (i.e., 3-mercaptopropionic acid) were then attached to the quantum dots to make them water-soluble. Amine-terminated DNA was then attached to the ligands via EDCI/NHS amide coupling. DNA was successfully attached to the ligands as monitored by F�rster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) between the quantum dot and the Cy3 dye attached to the DNA. This DNA and quantum dot experiment serves as a model and proof of concept for other bioconjugates could be attached to a quantum dot and detected through FRET.

Utilization of FRET to determine hybridization of DNA

245th National Meeting (2013)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.