Nanoparticle labels in immunosensing using optical detection methods

Efforts to improve the performance of immunoassays and immunosensors by incorporating different kinds of nanostructures have gained considerable momentum over the last decade. Apart from liposomes, which will not be discussed here, most groups focus on artificial, particulate marker systems, both organic and inorganic. The underlying detection procedures may be based either on electro-magnetical or optical techniques. This review will be confined to the latter only, comprising nanoparticle applications generating signals as diverse as static and time-resolved luminescence, one- and two-photon absorption, Raman and Rayleigh scattering as well as surface plasmon resonance and others. In general, all endeavors cited are geared to achieve one or more of the following goals: lowering of detection limits (if possible, down to single-molecule level), parallel integration of multiple signals (multiplexing), signal amplification by several orders of magnitude and prevention of photobleaching effects with concomitant maintenance of antigen binding specificity and sensitivity. Inorganic nanoparticle labels based on noble metals, semiconductor quantum dots and nanoshells appear to be the most versatile systems for these bioanalytical applications of nanophotonics.