Tuning the analytical performance of near-infrared fluorescent quantum dots

Near-infrared quantum dots (NIR QDs) have wide application prospect because of their excellent analytical performance, such as wider absorption spectra and longer emission wavelength. As is well known, the analytical performance including emission peak position, fluorescence intensity and surface chemistry is highly dependent on the structures of NIR QDs. Therefore, due to the intensive studies on structures, analytical performance of NIR QDs can be regulated precisely. Based on our group’s work on inorganic nanocrystal and surface organic ligand, we summarize recent regulation strategies for optimizing the analytical performance of NIR QDs in this review. We also present the remaining problems and challenges, offering a further step forward the application of NIR QDs.