Quantum Dot Sensors

The rapid and precise detection of viral pathogens is paramount for safeguarding public health, advancing disease prevention strategies and mitigating global health crises. Quantum dots (QDs) are nanoscale semiconductor particles, typically ranging from 2 to 10 nm in diameter, that exhibit unique optical and electronic properties due to quantum confinement effects. These semiconducting nanoparticles exhibit high fluorescence quantum yield, tuneable emission spectra and excellent photostability, enabling their application as next-generation tools for virus detection and monitoring. QD-based sensors, leveraging the unique optical and electronic properties of nanoscale semiconductors, represent a transformative advance in virus detection technologies. This chapter explores the principles, fabrication methods and applications of quantum dot sensors. It highlights their exceptional sensitivity, specificity and multiplexing capabilities, enabling rapid and reliable identification of viral particles and biomarkers. The broad applications of these sensors in virus detection are discussed. Additionally, the section explores current challenges, such as scalability, biocompatibility and real-world deployment, while offering a forward-looking perspective on the emerging trends in QD-based virus sensing, such as point-of-care devices and wearable diagnostics.