Quantum Dots in Cancer Theranostics: A Thorough Review of Recent Advancements in Bioimaging, Tracking, and Therapy across Various Cancer Types.

Quantum dots (QDs) have attracted considerable interest due to their potential applications and economic viability in various industrial sectors, such as communications, displays, and solar cells. This fascination originates from the quantum size effect-induced remarkable optical properties exhibited by QDs. In recent years, significant progress has been made in producing QDs devoid of cadmium, known to be toxic to cells and living organisms. These QDs have generated considerable interest in bioimaging due to their potential for targeting molecules and cells. There is a developing need for diagnostics and therapy at the individual molecule and single-cell level in the medical field. As a result, the application of QDs in the medical industry is gaining momentum. This study provides an overview of the most recent developments in applying QDs for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, also known as theranostics. It emphasizes specifically the use of QDs in cancer therapy.