Light-Induced PEGylation and Functionalization of Semiconductor Polymer Dots

A semiconductor polymer with side-chain oxetane groups was synthesized to form highly fluorescent, functionalized, and ultra-stable polymer dots (Pdots). A facile light-induced strategy covalently links functional polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecules to polymer dots while simultaneously providing functional groups for bioconjugation. The influence of photo-crosslinkable side-chains and PEG molecules on the properties and performance of Pdots was systematically investigated. The Pdots functionalized by photo-crosslinking show specific labeling and negligible non-specific binding as compared to non-functionalized Pdots. The results provide a viable strategy for nanoparticle assembly and functionalization.