Sulfur quantum dots for fluorescence sensing in biological and pharmaceutical samples: a review

Abstract

The creation of uncomplicated and efficient sensors for achieving specific analyte detection can provide valuable information for on-site analysis. Sulfur quantum dots (SQDs), an innovative category of fluorescent nanomaterials, are currently under study and applied in diverse fields, with a primary focus on fluorescence (FL) sensing. These SQDs offer several advantages, such as a straightforward synthesis method, distinct composition, extremely small size, customizable fluorescence, and minimal toxicity. This review focuses on fluorescent sensors designed based on SQDs, emphasizing the detection of specific targets in human biological samples, as well as in pharmaceutical samples. Finally, this paper addresses the future development and critical challenges associated with the detection of many targets based on SQDs as probes in different fields.

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1. Introduction

In recent decades, considerable research has focused on the photophysical properties and applications of various small particles, including quantum dots (QDs)^1–5 and nanoclusters (NCs).^6–8 Terminologies like nanomaterials, nanorods, and nanoplates have also been used to describe specific nanoscale materials. Notably, size-dependent photoluminescence (PL) resulting from quantum confinement effects is a widely explored phenomenon in the fields of chemical and biological research.⁹ This burgeoning nanoscience has made its way into educational settings across all levels.^10,11 QDs have attracted much attention for a variety of promising applications^12–14 in catalysis,^15,16 analysis,^4,17–21 energy conversion/storage,²² bioimaging and biomedicine,^23,24 and drug delivery,²⁵ as well as sensing applications in food analysis.²⁶

Zero-dimensional nanomaterials (0D NMs) have garnered considerable interest in sensing applications, including metal NCs²⁷ and carbon dots (CDs).²⁸ However, metal NCs, due to their heavy metal composition, pose significant health and environmental concerns²⁹ and exhibit low stability.³⁰ Recently, SQDs, a new type of non-metallic quantum dot from the nanosulfur family, have emerged as promising fluorescent materials. SQDs feature a polymeric sulfur core and exhibit impressive photophysical properties,³¹ along with inherent characteristics such as non-toxicity, hydrophilicity, and antibacterial properties.³² Governed by lone pair electrons, sulfur atoms have a notable affinity for analytes.³³ Therefore, the successful synthesis and appealing attributes of SQDs present new opportunities for chemical sensing compared to other QDs.

Elemental sulfur, among the most abundant natural resources, boasts a history of utilization spanning thousands of years. In the 19th century, sulfur deposits in volcanic rocks dominated its extraction. Presently, global elemental sulfur primarily arises from desulfurization in natural gas and crude oil refining, yielding over 70 million tons annually.^32,34 Beyond sulfuric acid production, it finds applications in medicine, agriculture, and the rubber industry. Despite meeting elemental sulfur demands, a substantial excess persists, resulting in significant waste and storage risks due to its inflammable and explosive nature. Urgent exploration of effective approaches for the value-added utilization of elemental sulfur is essential. Earth-abundant sulfur, ranked 14th in elements found in the Earth's crust, plays a pivotal role in various fields,³⁵ including sulfuric acid production, lithium–sulfur batteries, and modifications in polymeric and organic materials. Unlike other chemical commodities, sulfur is involuntarily produced from natural gas processing and petroleum refineries, producing more than 7 million tons of high-quality sulfur each year. The fascinating attributes of this material, including its notable capabilities for high alkaline metal storage, molar refraction, infrared transparency, and pesticidal properties, underscore its significance in diverse applications.³⁶

Sulfur nanoparticles (SNPs)¹¹ are widely utilized, yet their practical use is limited due to challenges such as large particle size, insufficient hydrophilicity, low reactivity, and toxicity. To address their toxicity, the inherent attributes of SQDs, such as non-toxicity, hydrophilicity, and ease of modification, have bolstered their potential for sensing applications.^37,38

In recent times, researchers have turned their focus to a fresh entrant in the realm of pure elemental quantum dots (SQDs). This exploration has brought to light their improved photocatalytic and FL properties. Various approaches, including mechanical methods like ultrasonication³⁹ and microwave treatment,⁴⁰ as well as chemical strategies such as pure O₂ oxidation,⁴¹ have been employed to expedite the synthesis of SQDs and enhance their quantum yield. The transition from bulk sulfur to S dots has unveiled unexpectedly delightful optical properties.⁴² Consequently, the successful synthesis and enticing features of SQDs pave the way for advancements in chemical sensing,⁴³ white light-emitting diodes,⁴⁴ catalysis,⁴⁵ and bioimaging.⁴⁶ Governed by lone pair electrons, sulfur atoms consistently demonstrate an affinity toward specific targets, leveraging fluorometric signals from the probe.

The aim of this review is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the current research status of SQDs. After providing a brief introduction to SQDs and their characteristics, we delve into their applications. Our unique contribution lies in introducing their applications for the first time in biological molecules and pharmaceutical drugs, utilizing FL sensing techniques. This opens up new avenues for their practical utilization in biological and pharmaceutical analyses.

2. Sulfur quantum dots and synthesis

Sulfur quantum dots represent a fascinating and innovative class of nanomaterials that have gained considerable attention in recent years.^47,48 SQDs arise as an innovative class of luminescent nanomaterials, displaying considerable potential across diverse application domains.³⁶ Since their initial report in 2014,³⁷ SQDs have garnered substantial interest as emerging and active metal-free elemental quantum dots. Their unique composition, favorable optical properties, low toxicity, small size, ease of processing, and cost-effectiveness enhance their promising profile.^49,50 Additionally, comprising a polymeric sulfur core embellished with abundant surface functionalities like sulfites and sulfates, SQDs exhibit excellent water dispersibility. The presence of these surface functional groups, combined with polar functional groups from the surface passivation agent, makes them ideal candidates for surface functionalization. Notably, the unique photophysical properties of SQDs make them versatile for a myriad of applications.³¹

Over the last five years, there has been a remarkable surge in interest in sulfur quantum dots, an innovative category of metal-free fluorescent quantum dots. This heightened attention is attributed to their distinct optical, spectroscopic, chemical, and antibacterial properties.⁴⁰Scheme 1 illustrates the properties of SQDs.

Scheme 1 Summary of sulfur quantum dots and their properties.

Direct synthesis of SQDs from readily available and affordable elemental sulfur has been achieved. A multitude of researchers have attempted to explore the diverse application possibilities of SQDs. Up to now, multiple methods have been developed to produce fluorescent SQDs, and these methods can be categorized into two groups. The initial classification, referred to as the bottom-up approach, involves directly oxidizing or reducing sulfur ions present in compounds containing sulfur, such as metal sulfides and thiosulfates, to produce zero-valent sulfur atoms. For instance, Li and colleagues generated fluorescent SQDs by oxidizing S²⁻ ions into zero-valent S atoms through an interfacial reaction involving metal sulfide quantum dots and nitric acid.⁵¹ This approach includes creating fluorescent SQDs by utilizing sodium thiosulfate as the primary material in conjunction with solution chemistry. This overcomes the limitation of the extended reaction times associated with using elemental sulfur directly as the raw material (Fig. 1A).⁵²

Fig. 1 Diagrammatic representation of SQD synthesis using (A) the bottom-up approach; from ref. 52 with permission, Copyright 2020, American Chemical Society; and (B) top-down method from ref. 53. With permission. Copyright 2023, Royal Society of Chemistry.

An alternative synthesis strategy is the top-down approach, wherein fluorescent SQDs are directly synthesized from elemental sulfur via solution chemistry under varying reaction conditions. For example, Biju et al.⁵³ efficiently produced luminescent SQDs utilizing cost-effective and abundant bulk sulfur powder. This process entails dissolving bulk sulfur powder into small particles in an alkaline environment, followed by the oxidation of polysulfide ions to zero-valent sulfur by ozone. The utilization of ozone's robust oxidizing potential has significantly shortened the synthesis time to just 4 hours. The obtained Oz-SQDs exhibit nearly uniform size, customizable emission, colloidal stability, robust thermal stability, and outstanding photostability. Additionally, they achieved a reasonable PL quantum yield of 9.26% (Fig. 1B). This work paves the way for the direct production of cost-effective and readily available fluorescent SQDs from elemental sulfur.

Therefore, the research and development of highly luminescent SDs have long-term significance for practical applications.

3. Sensing mechanism

FL sensing represents a rapidly evolving domain in research and technology, encompassing the detection of a wide array of natural and synthetic compounds across various media, including living organisms. Its applications span from overseeing industrial processes to monitoring environmental conditions and diagnosing medical conditions.⁵⁴ Among the myriad of detection techniques available, FL methods stand out for their unparalleled sensitivity, precise temporal and spatial resolution, and adaptability, enabling not only remote detection of diverse targets but also the visualization of targets.²⁹ At the core of sensing lies the transmission of signals generated by molecular interactions with the target to fluorescent molecules, nanoparticles, and nanocomposites, which are then detected using state-of-the-art electronic and optical devices.

The fluorescent properties of materials are influenced by their synthesis method, shape, and surrounding environment. Alterations in bonds, energy, or electron transport processes lead to the enhancement or reduction of FL quality as a result of interactions between fluorescent materials and external substances. As illustrated in Scheme 2, we categorize the FL-based strategies into “FL quenching” and “FL enhancement” techniques. The subsequent section elaborates on the potential fluorescence mechanisms, along with recent applications.

Scheme 2 Proposed mechanisms for FL quenching and FL enhancement techniques.

3.1. FL quenching

Numerous biochemical analyses have been proposed using FL quenching of fluorophores by analytes. The FL intensity can be reduced through various processes with distinct mechanisms, collectively known as quenching. Dynamic quenching, particularly collisional quenching, occurs when excited-state fluorophores are deactivated upon contact with other molecules (quenchers), resulting in a charge or energy transfer. This dynamic quenching leads to a reduction in the excited-state lifetime of the fluorophore with increasing quencher concentration, regardless of the fluorophore absorption spectral profile. Photoinduced electron transfer (PET) is a type of dynamic quenching in which electron transfer from the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) of the analyte to the fluorophore causes FL quenching. In cases involving transition metal ions, electrons may transfer from the fluorophore to the analyte, leading to FL quenching.⁵⁵

The inner filter effect (IFE) is another FL quenching mechanism that results from the overlap between the absorption spectra of the absorber and the excitation and/or emission spectra of the fluorophore. In this scenario, energy from the excitation source and/or emission of the fluorophore is absorbed by the absorber. Key factors influencing the IFE mechanism include the independence of the excited-state lifetime of the fluorophore on the presence or absence of the absorber, the dependence of quenching efficiency on the excitation and emission wavelength of the fluorophore, and the absence of changes in the absorption spectrum of the fluorophore in the presence of the absorber.²⁹

Static quenching occurs when fluorescent materials form non-fluorescent complexes with quenchers. This interaction typically occurs in the ground state; upon light irradiation, the system returns to the ground state without emission. Static quenching is characterized by changes in the absorption spectra of the fluorophore, independence from the excited-state lifetime of the fluorophore, and an increase in FL with increasing temperature.⁵⁶

3.2. FL enhancement

Fluorescence enhancement can be attributed to aggregation-induced emission enhancement (AIEE), FL resonance energy transfer (FRET), and the crosslink-enhanced emission effect (CEE).

Aggregation-induced emission enhancement (AIEE) occurs when fluorophores aggregate or crystallize, leading to intensified emission. Normally, in solution, organic compounds with freely rotating groups do not emit light; however, upon crystallization or aggregation, their rotational freedom becomes restricted, resulting in fluorescence.⁵⁷ FRET is a nonradiative process of energy transfer based on dipole–dipole interactions between fluorescent molecules. Energy transfer occurs rapidly from a donor molecule to an acceptor molecule within a proximity of 0 to 10 nm without photon emission.⁵⁸ CEE involves the amplification of luminescence due to crosslinking. This phenomenon is believed to arise from aggregated or crosslinked polymer structures or subluminophore functional groups that emit light. Chemical or physical crosslinking, whether through covalent or non-covalent bonds, can induce crosslinking. Covalent bonds create stable and robust bonding interactions, imparting rigidity and preventing non-radiative transitions. Non-covalent interactions include supramolecular interactions, complexation with ions, and interactions within confined domains.⁵⁹

4. Applications

4.1. Biosensing

Biosensing, employing the captivating characteristics of SQDs, is a developing domain where a variety of methods are employed to identify different targets such as ions,^60–62 small molecules,^48,63,64 and temperature sensing.⁶⁵ Owing to their high chemical stability, favorable aqueous solubility, straightforward surface functionalization, and inherent antimicrobial attributes, SQDs can enhance detection sensitivity and selectivity.

4.1.1. Small molecule sensing. The luminescence properties of SQDs make them a valuable tool for detecting biologically significant small molecules. Ascorbic acid (AA), a vital organic nutrient recognized as vitamin C, has extensive applications in food additives, healthcare supplements, and medications for enhancing human well-being.⁶⁶ AA exhibits robust reducibility, consistently serving as a potent antioxidant to mitigate oxidative stress in physiological metabolism, particularly as a substrate for ascorbate peroxidase.⁶⁷ Furthermore, AA plays a crucial role in various biosynthetic processes, including collagen formation, metabolism of tyrosine and tryptophan, iron utilization, normal development of bone and dentin cells, and enhancement of immune activity.^68,69 Therefore, it is crucial to monitor the concentration of AA in biological samples for medical diagnosis.

A FL probe based on water-soluble SQDs was created using an uncomplicated, environmentally friendly, and highly efficient one-pot synthesis method, which exhibited a remarkably high quantum yield. This probe was successfully designed for the swift and discernible detection of Ce(IV). Moreover, the system has been proven effective in various Ce(IV)-related biological assays, including the analysis of serum samples for ascorbic acid (AA). The sensing platform displays an excellent dynamic range for AA concentration within the 0.5 to 10.0 μM range, with a low detection limit of 0.289 μM.⁷⁰

Fluorescent SQDs were successfully synthesized using sublimed sulfur as the precursor and PEG-400 as the passivator. The presence of Cr(VI) led to a notable decrease in the FL intensity of the SQDs. The addition of ascorbic acid to the SQD/Cr(VI) system resulted in the recovery of the probe's fluorescence, which was attributed to the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) induced by AA. Consequently, a sequential platform for the detection of Cr(VI) and AA was developed. Under optimized conditions, the FL of SQDs exhibited linear dependencies on the concentrations of Cr(VI) and AA, with a linear range of 0.01–5.5 mM and a detection limit of 3 μM.⁷¹ The recoveries of the probe in human serum were 99.3% and 102.9%, as illustrated in Fig. 2.

Fig. 2 Schematic illustration of the SQD sensor. From ref. 71 with permission. Copyright 2021, Royal Society of Chemistry.

Glutathione (GSH) plays crucial roles in biological systems, serving various cellular functions such as maintaining intracellular redox states, detoxification, and metabolism.^55,72,73 Simultaneously, abnormal levels of GSH are linked to numerous clinical diseases, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Parkinson's, liver damage, diabetes, Alzheimer's, inflammatory conditions, and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).^74,75 Consequently, the development of sensitive and selective techniques for GSH detection in biological systems is of utmost importance.

In a study conducted by Liu et al., a fluorescence-based assay for detecting GSH was developed, relying on the GSH-modulated quenching effect of Cu₂O nanoparticles (NPs) on SQDs. The FL of SQDs is efficiently quenched upon the formation of a complex with Cu₂O NPs through the static quenching effect (SQE). The FL GSH assay exhibits outstanding selectivity and resilience against various interferences and high salt concentrations, facilitating the successful detection of GSH in human blood samples. A noticeable increase in the fluorescence ratio is observed with an elevated concentration of GSH, establishing a linear relationship between the FL ratio and GSH concentration in the range of 20 to 700 μM. The LOD is calculated as 4.0 μM, following the criterion of signal-to-noise ratio of 3 times.⁷⁶ As shown in Fig. 3, Han and colleagues identified high-quality sulfur quantum dots (H-SQDs) that exhibited heightened anodic electrochemiluminescence (ECL) emission in a water-based solution. These H-SQDs showcase strong FL characteristics, facilitating the ultra-trace detection of GSH with an outstanding detection limit of 35 nM.⁷⁷

Fig. 3 Schematic illustration of the fluorescence assay for GSH. From ref. 76 with permission. Copyright 2022, Elsevier.

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a crucial hydrolase in mammalian tissues and plays a vital role in catalyzing the hydrolysis of nucleic acids, proteins, and certain small molecules.^78,79 Due to its significance as an indicator of various diseases such as breast and prostate cancer, bone disorders, liver dysfunction, and diabetes, abnormal expression levels of ALP in serum are considered important diagnostic markers. ALP has, therefore, become a widely utilized enzyme in clinical practice, and its activity is often recognized as a key biomarker for diagnostics.^80,81 Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop a sensitive and straightforward method for monitoring ALP activity to meet the demands of numerous bioanalytical applications.

In this study, Ning et al. employed a straightforward approach to synthesize SQDs with excitation and emission wavelengths of 355 nm and 440 nm, respectively. The introduction of ALP into the system resulted in the quenching of the FL intensity of SQDs. These sensor platforms demonstrated high sensitivity and selectivity in detecting ALP, with a linear response observed in the concentration range of 0.25–100 U L⁻¹ and detection limits of 0.08 and 0.10 U L⁻¹, respectively. The sensor platform was effectively applied for sensing ALP in serum samples and monitoring ALP in cells.⁸²

In this study, Ma et al. utilized a microwave-assisted method with sulfur powder as the precursor to synthesize SQDs. They presented an FL assay designed for the detection of ALP. The FL of the SQDs was initially quenched by Cr(VI). In the presence of ALP, the enzymatic hydrolysis of 2-phospho-L-ascorbic acid catalyzed by ALP produced ascorbic acid. This generated ascorbic acid effectively reduced Cr(VI) to Cr(III), thereby restoring the FL intensity of the SQDs. The FL intensity of the probe demonstrated a dynamic range of 1.5–5.0 U mL⁻¹, with a calculated LOD of 0.13 U mL⁻¹. The assay showed commendable sensitivity and selectivity and was successful in detecting ALP in serum samples,⁸³ as shown in Fig. 4.

Fig. 4 Schematic diagram of the synthesis of SQDs and determination of ALP. From ref. 83 with permission. Copyright 2022, MDPI.

Dopamine (DA), a naturally occurring neurotransmitter in the brain, significantly impacts the functioning of the central nervous, hormonal, and cardiovascular systems.⁸⁴ Variations in blood dopamine levels can serve as indicators for diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and schizophrenia.⁸⁵ Given its profound impact on overall health, it is imperative to develop straightforward and efficient techniques for detecting dopamine in biological samples.

In this study, an extremely sensitive sensor was developed to detect dopamine, employing SQDs as luminescent materials. SQDs were utilized to identify dopamine within the linear range of 1 × 10⁻¹⁰ to 1 × 10⁻³ M, achieving a detection limit of 2.5 × 10⁻¹¹ M. This suggested approach is suitable for analyzing real samples and holds the potential for advancing novel luminophores, contributing to advancements in human health.⁸⁶

Exploring early indicators of kidney and retinal damage during the initial phase of angiopathy, when widely accepted organ function parameters remain within the normal range, is currently a focal point of extensive global research.^87,88 Numerous studies have highlighted disturbances in glycoprotein and glycosaminoglycan metabolism, including the involvement of the N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) enzyme, as a contributing factor to diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy.^89,90 Hence, there is a pressing need to develop a more refined method for detecting NAG with increased sensitivity.

Jiaxin and colleagues devised a fluorescent sensor utilizing polyethylene glycol (400) (PEG-400)-modified SQDs subjected to H₂O₂-assisted etching. Leveraging the FL IFE, the FL of SQDs can be suppressed by p-nitrophenol (PNP) generated through the N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG)-catalyzed hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl-N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminide (PNP-NAG). The SQDs served effectively as a fluorescent probe for detecting NAG activity in the range of 0.4 to 7.5 U L⁻¹, with a detection limit of 0.1 U L⁻¹. Notably, the method exhibited high selectivity and was successfully employed for detecting NAG activity in serum samples,⁹¹ as shown in Fig. 5.

Fig. 5 Schematic diagram for the synthesis of SQDs and its application for NAG. From ref. 91 with permission. Copyright 2023, Elsevier.

Uric acid (UA) represents the primary byproduct of purine metabolism within the human body, predominantly found in urine and serum.^92,93 Maintaining a normal level of UA is crucial for overall health, with acceptable ranges in urine and serum spanning from 2.49 to 4.46 mM and 0.13 to 0.46 mM, respectively.⁹⁴ Deviations from these normal levels, whether higher or lower, can lead to various health issues such as gout, kidney disease, high blood pressure, elevated blood lipids, atherosclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and other conditions.^95,96 Consequently, constant monitoring of UA levels in bodily fluids is of utmost importance.

In this investigation, sulfur quantum dots modified with heparin (Hep-SQDs) generated display emissions that were not dependent on excitation. A ratiometric FL probe utilizing the inner filter effect between the Hep-SQDs and 2,3-diaminophenazine, along with the oxidative product of o-phenylenediamine, was used for detecting UA. The proposed probe showed outstanding selectivity and sensitivity for UA analysis, with a detection limit of 0.56 μM. Moreover, this established FL probe was effectively utilized to assess UA levels in human serum,⁹⁷ as shown in Fig. 6.

Fig. 6 Diagram depicting the probe design using Hep-SQDs for the assessment of UA. From ref. 97 with permission. Copyright 2022, Elsevier.

The identification of enzyme activity within the human body is crucial for both clinical diagnosis and biomedical research.^98,99 The activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), a key intermediate in biological systems, is intricately linked to human health. Its correlation with various cancers, such as nasopharyngeal cancer, head and neck cancer, urothelial cancer, bladder cancer, and melanoma, particularly underscores its association with the adverse prognosis of melanoma.¹⁰⁰ Given that these diseases typically result in a significant elevation in LDH concentration in biofluids, such as serum, it is imperative to establish sensitive, convenient, and rapid methods for detecting LDH.

The FL of SQDs produced using the microwave method exhibits a specific enhancement in the presence of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺). Exploiting this characteristic, LDH catalyzes the reduction of pyruvate to lactic acid in the presence of reductive coenzyme I (NADH), concurrently transforming NADH into NAD⁺. This transformation distinctly amplifies the FL intensity of the SQDs. By leveraging the increase in FL intensity, the assay enables the detection of LDH within the range of 500–40 000 U L⁻¹, with an LOD of 262 U L⁻¹. Successfully applied to detect LDH activity in serum, the assay demonstrates promising potential for clinical applications,¹⁰¹ as depicted in Fig. 7.

Fig. 7 Schematic illustration of LDH detection. From ref. 101 with permission. Copyright 2022, Elsevier.

Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) is an enzyme with non-specific cholinesterase properties capable of breaking down choline-based esters.¹⁰² It is synthesized in the human liver and swiftly released into the bloodstream, contributing to cholinesterase activity in human serum.¹⁰³ The expression level of BChE in human serum serves as a crucial indicator in the clinical diagnosis of various conditions such as organophosphate toxicity, liver dysfunction, poststroke dementia, and Alzheimer's disease.^104,105 Among conventional methods, fluorescence detection stands out for its high sensitivity, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency in screening for BChE in biological samples.

Ma and colleagues¹⁰⁶ developed a ratiometric FL assay. MnO₂ nanosheets were utilized to quench the FL of blue-emissive S-dots and amplify the FL of yellow-emissive OPD by catalyzing their oxidation reactions. A linear correlation was established between the intensity ratio of blue to yellow and BChE concentration within the range of 30–500 U L⁻¹, with a calculated limit of detection of 17.8 U L⁻¹. The ratiometric FL assay demonstrated exceptional selectivity for acetylcholinesterase and tolerance to various other species. The developed method demonstrated a robust detection performance in human serum and inhibitor screening, as illustrated in Fig. 8.

Fig. 8 Schematic illustration of the assay for the detection of BChE. From ref. 106 with permission. Copyright 2021, Springer.

A new investigation introduced a highly responsive fluorescence assay to assess the BChE activity. This approach leverages the self-polymerization-modulated FL of SQDs. The assessment of BChE levels is conducted through the evaluation of the restored FL of SQDs, highlighting a consistent correlation between the FL ratio and BChE concentration within the 0.01–10 U L⁻¹ range. The determined limit of detection is exceptionally low at 0.0069 U L⁻¹, establishing a new record as the lowest reported value to date. These features facilitate the direct evaluation of BChE activity in serum.¹⁰⁷

Zoledronic acid (ZA) is a third-generation bisphosphonate with a heterocyclic imidazole structure. It induces apoptosis in osteoclast cells by inhibiting farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase, a crucial enzyme involved in protein prenylation.¹⁰⁸ This enzyme plays a key role in regulating the proliferation of human tumor cells. Numerous preclinical studies have confirmed that nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates, particularly ZA, exert direct antitumor effects, particularly in human breast cancer cell lines. These effects are attributed to the reduction of tumor cell proliferation and the subsequent promotion of apoptosis in vitro.^109,110

The administration of ZA to cancer patients with bone metastases typically involves intravenous or transdermal injections. Given its accumulation primarily in the bone mineral matrix, it is essential to accurately assess the pharmacokinetics and toxic effects of ZA in body fluids such as urine and plasma.¹¹¹ Therefore, there is a critical need to develop sensitive, quantitative analytical methods for the precise evaluation of this drug.¹¹² To address this, it is imperative to create intelligent fluorescent probes that enable rapid and selective detection of ZA.

In the year 2022, Tan and colleagues demonstrated the use of Fe³⁺-mediated fluorescent SQDs as a probe. These SQDs, emitting blue light, were effectively utilized for detecting ZA in various samples such as human serum, urine, and drugs, providing a convenient application method. The analysis of ZA in diverse samples indicated linear detection regions within the concentration range of 5–200 μM, with a detection limit as low as 1.7 μM.¹¹³

Norfloxacin (NFX), a member of the fluoroquinolone family, is a fully synthetic antibiotic. Currently, it is extensively employed in animal husbandry and aquaculture for the prevention and treatment of specific infectious diseases.¹¹⁴ However, excessive norfloxacin residues are present in both the environment and food sources. This surplus residue poses potential risks to human health, including complications such as kidney disease, allergic reactions, reproductive system disorders, and even cancer.^115,116 Therefore, it is crucial to develop a rapid, precise, and reliable method for monitoring NFX residues in biological samples.

Wang and colleagues conducted a distinctive study showing remarkably low detection limits of 3.3 × 10⁻⁶ M and a linear detection range of 0 to 2 × 10⁻⁴ M for the detection of norfloxacin using fluorescent SQDs. In their research, the recovery rate for norfloxacin in human urine ranged from 93.2% to 106.6%.⁴³

Research studies on SQDs for small molecule sensing are summarized in Table 1.

Table 1 Selected SQDs for different small molecule detections, including targets, synthesis methods, QY, LOD, and dynamic range values

Target	Synthesis method	QY	LOD	Dynamic range	Ref.
Ascorbic acid	Ultrasound-microwave	58.6%	0.289 μM	0.5–10.0 μM	70
Ascorbic acid	Assembling–fission	—	3 μM	0.01–5.5 mM	71
Glutathione	Bubbling-assisted	8%	4.0 μM	20–700 μM	76
Glutathione	Post-synthetic etching	—	35 nM	0–20 μM	77
Alkaline phosphatase	H2O2-assisted	—	0.08 and 0.10 U L^−1	0.25–100 U L^−1	82
Alkaline phosphatase	Microwave-assisted	—	0.13 U mL^−1	1.5–5.0 U mL^−1	83
Dopamine	Hydrothermal	—	2.5 × 10^−11 M	1 × 10^−10 to 1 × 10^−3 M	86
N-Acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase	H2O2-assisted etching	18.77%	0.1 U L^−1	0.4–7.5 U L^−1	91
Uric acid	Bubbling-assisted	11.4%	0.56 μM	1–10 μM	97
Lactate dehydrogenase	Bubbling-assisted	—	262 U L^−1	500–40 000 U L^−1	101
Butyrylcholinesterase	Bubbling-assisted	—	17.8 U L^−1	30–500 U L^−1	106
Butyrylcholinesterase	Bubbling-assisted	—	U L^−1	0.01–10 U L^−1	107
Zoledronic acid	Bubbling-assisted	31.7%	1.7 μM	5–200 μM	113
Norfloxacin	Assemble–fission	—	3.3 × 10^−6 M	0–2 × 10^−4 M	43

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4.1.2. Temperature sensing. Temperature is one of the fundamental physical quantities capable of representing various chemical or physical phenomena and is important in human existence.^117,118 In nanomedicine, temperature sensing serves as a crucial diagnostic tool. Consequently, high-precision temperature detection is indispensable in various aspects of life, education, production, and research.¹¹⁹ Therefore, temperature measurement is crucial for biomedical detection.

Lei et al. recently engineered temperature-sensing probes using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-capped SQDs via a one-pot synthesis strategy. The study demonstrated a gradual decrease in the fluorescence intensity of SQD dispersions as the environmental temperature increased, enabling the detection of temperature variations within the range of 285–335 K with an absolute linear response (R² = 0.9992). Notably, this research highlights a temperature sensitivity of 0.75%/K for these PVA-capped SQDs. Given their small size, favorable biocompatibility, and temperature-dependent FL, the investigation explored their utility as nanothermometers for monitoring cell temperature,⁶⁵ as shown in Fig. 9.

Fig. 9 Schematic illustration of the preparation of the fluorescent probe for temperature. From ref. 65 with permission. Copyright 2021, Wiley.

4.2. Pharmaceutical sensing

Pharmaceuticals encompass a category of organic compounds created specifically for their medicinal properties and can serve as drugs to treat various illnesses. Their utilization has significantly contributed to enhancing both human longevity and overall health. The introduction of pharmaceutical innovations since 1940 has played a pivotal role in the remarkable increase in life expectancy.^29,120 SQDs exhibit robust fluorescence and low toxicity, making them well-suited as fluorescence-sensing probes for pharmaceutical drugs.

Nimesulide (Nim), classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug,¹²¹ demonstrates effectiveness in addressing conditions such as chronic rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation of the genitourinary system, otorhinolaryngological diseases, odontostomatological practices, and postoperative pain.^122,123 Due to these therapeutic properties, nimesulide is extensively utilized in clinical settings. Therefore, the detection of nimesulide in drug samples is of significant importance.

Recently, Ma et al. introduced a synthesis method for L-cysteine-capped SQDs (Cys-SQDs) to facilitate their formation, demonstrating their utility in the fluorescent sensing of Nim. The resulting Cys-SQDs not only served effectively as a nanoprobe for Nim detection but also exhibited accurate identification of intracellular Nim with excellent imaging capabilities. Ma et al. achieved detection limits of approximately 160 nM for Nim using this nanoprobe, presenting competitive values compared to the currently employed sensing probes. Nim was successfully detected in tablet form, and the Nim content in the diluted tablet measurement solution was measured at 8.59 μM. Quantitative spike recoveries for Nim determination in practical samples ranged from 93.23% to 110.01%, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) between 0.78% and 5.68%,¹²⁴ as shown in Fig. 10.

Fig. 10 Schematic diagram of the synthetic procedure for the probe for Nim. From ref. 124 with permission. Copyright 2023, Elsevier.

Antibiotics such as clioquinol (CQ) play a crucial role in addressing a diverse range of microbial infections.¹²⁵ CQ, classified as a hydroxyquinoline, impedes the activity of enzymes essential for DNA replication. This medication has demonstrated efficacy against viral and protozoal infections. In the treatment of skin infections, topical formulations of CQ are employed due to their potent antifungal and antiprotozoal properties.¹²⁶ Additionally, CQ has found applications in various pharmacological contexts, including the treatment of neurological disorders, human prostate cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions such as Huntington's and Parkinson's diseases.^127,128 Consequently, there is a keen interest in developing a low-cost, rapid-response, and user-friendly sensor for the accurate quantification of CQ.

In this context, the FL enhancement effect of Zn²⁺ on the SQDs was not particularly pronounced; however, a notable quenching modulation effect was observed in the presence of CQ. Consequently, this led to an expanded linear analytical range by two orders of magnitude (from 0.024–0.24 μM and 0.62–30 μM), with a limit of detection of 0.015 μM. For practical applications, precise weighing of commercially available CQ cream samples has been undertaken,¹²⁹ as shown in Fig. 11.

Fig. 11 Schematic of the fluorometric assay for CQ. From ref. 129 with permission. Copyright 2020, Springer.

Tryptophan (Trp), an essential amino acid crucial for protein and peptide metabolism in the human body, plays a vital role in establishing and maintaining nitrogen balance in the diet.¹³⁰ Additionally, tryptophan is important in the nervous system.¹³¹ Since the human body cannot synthesize tryptophan, it must be obtained via tablets. Therefore, there is a critical need to develop a straightforward, easy-to-use, low-toxicity, and highly efficient analytical method for detecting tryptophan, especially under various drug-related conditions.

A sensing platform utilizing sulfur quantum dots coated with β-cyclodextrin (CD-SQDs) was developed for the selective FL recognition of Trp enantiomers. Consequently, the FL response of the CD-SQDs varies between L-Trp and D-Trp. Experimental validation using an actual sample of a compound amino acid injection demonstrated the effective recognition of L-Trp by the CD-SQD sensor. The detection system for L-Trp exhibited a linear range of 10 to 500 nM, with an LOD of 2.3 nM. The verification and practical application of CD-QSDs for the quantitative sensing of L-Trp were conducted using real samples of compound amino acid injection,¹³² ss illustrated in Fig. 12.

Fig. 12 Schematic illustration of the sensing of L and D-Trp. From ref. 132 with permission. Copyright 2023, American Chemical Society.

Research studies of SQDs for pharmaceutical drug sensing are summarized in Table 2.

Table 2 Selected SQDs for different pharmaceutical drug detections, including targets, synthesis methods, QY, LOD, and dynamic range values

Target	Synthesis method	QY	LOD	Dynamic range	Ref.
Nimesulide	Bubbling-assisted	10.50%	160 nM	0–100 μM	124
Clioquinol	Hydrothermal	0.67%	0.015 μM	0.024–0.24 μM and 0.62–30 μM	129
Tryptophan	Hydrothermal	0.016	2.3 nM	10–500 nM	132

---

5. Challenges

In spite of substantial advancements in this domain, certain challenges must be more thoroughly addressed in the synthesis and design of probes based on sulfur quantum dots. These challenges include the design of fluorescent probes with high quantum yields, exceptional emissive properties, and superior stability. Additionally, there is a need for extensive clinical testing and precautions when handling biological samples and pharmaceutical drugs, particularly in the context of specific diseases.

6. Conclusion

Chemists are interested in fluorescence-based sensors for various chemical species due to their cost-effectiveness and rapid response. This review delves into the role of SQDs in this realm, capitalizing on their advantages, such as unique composition, compact size, and minimal toxicity, rendering them efficient sensors for diverse molecular species and drugs. However, there is still potential for further improvements in sensors that rely on the fluorescence detection of these substances. Ongoing efforts are crucial for developing novel SQD sensors capable of identifying various chemical species in biological and pharmaceutical samples. It is now an opportune moment to transition to a universal system for preparation, one that can be scaled up for industrial production and paves the way for SQD-based bioanalysis and pharmaceutical applications with superior sensing capabilities. Undoubtedly, SQDs are promising materials for various applications and are poised to play vital roles in numerous other applications in the near future.

7. Future perspectives

This review explores the broadened applications of SQDs as fluorescent probes for detecting targets in human serum and drug samples. A key contribution of our work is to present this undertaking as a valuable source of data, providing researchers with insights and encouraging further exploration in the field of FL sensing, specifically through the utilization of SQDs.

• Natural resources can be utilized in the synthesis of SQDs to enhance their luminescence properties and achieve a higher quantum yield.

• The fabrication of SQDs for ion sensing in biological samples continues to present notable challenges, even in the recent era.

• Modification of the precursors of SQDs results in improved luminescence properties. The utilization of novel, biodegradable, and non-toxic reagents offers the potential for the detection of a broad range of analytes in different samples.

Data availability

Data sharing is not applicable to this article as no datasets were generated or analysed during the current study.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts to declare.

Acknowledgements

K. F. K. extends special thanks to the University of Sulaimani, College of Science, and the Chemistry Department for all of their cooperation.

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