Application of quantum dots as fluorescent maker in cell labeling

Quantum dots (QDs) have the potential to be used as a marker in research and supporting for medical treatment because of their unique optical and electronic properties such as size-tuneable light emission, narrow emission, high photostability, etc. With the goal of applying for biomarkers, QDs are often attached with antibodies. In order to simplify the binding process, we experimented to attach adaptor protein, namely protein A/G to CdSe/ZnS QDs covered by 3-mercaptopropionic acid (MPA). 80.7 % and 51.2 % of protein A/G at the concentration of 60 μg/mL and 20 μg/mL, respectively, conjugated with QDs in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) without supporting of N-Ethyl-N’-(3dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide/N-hydroxysuccinimide (EDC/NHS). After attaching to protein A/G, anti-pan T antibody could recognize and visualize Jurkat T cells. In conclusion, protein A/G was conjugated successfully on QDs and initially support for application in cell labeling.