A simple fluorescent strategy for in situ evaluation of cell surface carbohydrate with a quantum dot-lectin nanoprobe.

A simple and rapid fluorescent method was developed for the in situ evaluation of cell surface carbohydrate by homogeneous specific recognition of a quantum dot-lectin nanoprobe to mannosyl groups on the cell surface. The strategy was further used for dynamically monitoring the alteration of cell surface carbohydrate expression in response to drugs.