Optical features of hybrid molecular/biological-quantum dot systems governed by energy transfer processes

Energy transfer processes are continually being explored in both molecular and biological systems that are coupled to colloidal quantum dots (QDs). Quantum dots display unique size and composition dependent photophysical properties. The conjoining of QDs with various molecular and biological components has led to the development of a range of hybrid materials for energy-related applications. These hybrid systems vary in complexity from those composed of QDs and dyes to that of intricate assemblies of QDs with different proteins and light-harvesting complexes. The optical profiles of these systems such as absorption, emission, and fluorescence lifetime are often influenced by energy transfer processes. In this Review, we discuss the evolving field of molecular/biological-QD systems and enumerate on the interesting optical features these systems exhibit due to energy transfer. We also provide our perspective on the challenges and future directions that are worthy of investigation in this field. The impact of energy transfer processes on the optical profiles of heteroassemblies with quantum dots as a nano-scaffold are highlighted.