Hydrogel encapsulation of the QDs opens up a new range of applications, such as:
* Biosensors
:Enzymes and other bio-active molecules serve as biorecognition units while QDs serve as signalling units. By adding enzymes to the QD hydrogel network both units can be combined to form a biosensor. The enzymatic reaction that detects a particular molecule causes the fluoresce of QDs to be quenched. In this way, the location of molecules of interest can be observed.
* Cell Influence and Imaging
: Adding iron oxide nanoparticles to the QD micelles allows them to be fluorescent and magnetic. These micelles can be moved in a magnetic field to create concentration gradients that will influence a cell's processes.
* Gold Hyperthermia
:When excited by high energy radiation, such as with a laser, gold nanoparticles emit a thermal field. This phenomenon can be used as a form of hyperthermia therapy to destroy malignant cancers without damaging surrounding tissues. When combined with QDs in a hydrogel this could facilitate real-time monitoring of the tumor treatment.