Light‐Induced PEGylation and Functionalization of Semiconductor Polymer Dots

Abstract 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.