Research Information System
4th International Eurasian Conference on Biological and Chemical Sciences, Ankara, Turkey, 24 - 26 November 2021, pp.355
Quantum dots (QDs) are nanoscale semiconducting crystals with unique optical and electronic
properties due to their size (2-10 nm). Their excellent fluorophore properties derive a high molar
absorption coefficient (10-100 times higher than organic dyes), resistance to chemical degradation due
to quantum confinement (high quantum yield, emission colour change with size, narrower emission
band and, wider absorption bands etc.). These features of QDs are utilized in a large range of areas such
as display technology, bio-imaging, biosensor, and biomolecular interactions. As we combine the
advantages of QDs, QD-based FRET photodetectors can be used as an advanced and versatile optical
detection platform in case of food and environment safety. Aflatoxins form a class of dangerous
carcinogens that contaminate a wide range of food products and can be fatal to the human beings. To
detect AFB1, we have designed both water-soluble cadmium-including QDs and heavy-metal free QDs
by organometallic synthesis and microwave synthesis methods, respectively. These QDs serve as an
AFB1 photodetector for use in food safety. The prepared QDs are characterized with Photoluminescence
spectroscopy (PL), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and, transmission electron
microscopy (TEM) analyses. PL variations exhibit a correlation between aflatoxin B1 concentration and
Fourier energy transfer among QDs and AFB1.