Quantum Dots for the Management of Allergic Airway Diseases

Quantum dots are one of the most substantial nanomaterials that have emerged as a powerful tool engaging the recent materials science advancements in nanotechnology. They are essentially composed of approximately 10–100 atoms of semiconductor materials. Due to their highly specific emission spectra, photostability, unique optoelectronic properties, and ease of active-surface engineering, they are seen as promising tools in the medical field for the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. Quantum dots, being size-controlled nanoparticles, can be administered easily to the airways and are approached for a number of allergic airway diseases. They are predominantly employed in molecular imaging, regenerative medicines, and targeted drug delivery. It is possible to use quantum dots to reduce the time required to identify disease by shifting the early diagnosis from the tissue level to the cellular level. Many recent examples suggest that a variety of bioactive compounds can be functionalized over quantum dots to specifically target allergic airway diseases and also provide a sustained and controlled release. There are a few known issues pertaining to the biocompatibility of functionalized quantum dots and the bioavailability of drugs functionalized over quantum dots, which have attracted significant research attention in the past decade. This chapter discusses the structure, synthesis, mechanism, properties, biomedical applications, and recent advances in the quantum dots-based management of allergic airway diseases. The observed immunological responses associated with quantum dots-based disease management are noted. Based on the pros and cons involved in the current methodologies, future prospects in the management of airway diseases using quantum dots are also mentioned in this chapter.