Efficient Infrared‐Emitting PbS Quantum Dots Grown on DNA and Stable in Aqueous Solution and Blood Plasma

The synthesis of efficient photoluminescent quantum dots via growth on a DNA template is reported for the first time. The nanoparticles emit in the second biological window of 1050–1200 nm with quantum efficiencies of 11.5 ± 1 % in aqueous solution, and are stable for over a week in blood plasma at 37 °C. The Figure shows an energy-filtered TEM image of PbS nanocrystals (Pb: orange; P in DNA: green).