Quantum dots for biosensing: Classification and applications

Quantum dots (QDs) are the smallest nanomaterials (2–10 nm), with unique optical and electronic properties. Thanks to these properties, QDs have been standing during the last years as signal tags for different applications, including bioimaging, fluorescent biosensors and electrochemical assays. In this review, we explore the current state-of-the art on these nanomaterials, differentiating them between semiconductor and carbon-based QDs. Also, the review focuses on their unique advantages as transducers in different biosensing platforms.