CONICET | Buscador de Institutos y Recursos Humanos

Silicon nanoparticles (SiNp), particularly nanoparticles of diameter 1?4 nm, combine high quantum yield photoluminescence, the capacity for reactive oxygen species generation, and the richness of silicon surface derivatization. Chemical surface modifications may lead to an increase in aqueous solubility, biocompatibility, targeting potential, and circulation time in biological systems. Size, synthetic procedures and surface derivatization/oxidation may strongly affect the particles efficiency for reactive oxygen species yield and the redshift luminescence. On the whole, it is possible to develop multifunctional nanoparticles with potential applications in imaging, targeting and therapy.In this mini-review, we present and discuss the surface and optical properties that make SiNp potential markers and photosensitizers for biological uses. In addition, some synthesis path and surface functionalization procedures in order to understand the basics of photoluminescence of these particles.