Quantum dots and their interaction with biomolecules

In this study CdTe QDs were synthetized via microwave irradiation method. Further they have been modified for purposes of their interaction with biomolecules using different conjugation approaches. Applied conjugation chemistries were non-specific interaction, streptavidin-biotin affinity. Glutathione modified CdTe QDs of 2 nm size were capable of non-specific interaction with major groove of DNA, while streptavidin modified CdTe QDs served as specific linker for biotinylated oligonucleotides. Further, streptavidin-biotin interaction was used for coupling of apoferritin and magnetic nanoparticles