Nanostructured silicon-based nanoparticles as label-free photoluminescent probes for in vivo imaging

The emission properties of hydrosilylated porous silicon nanoparticles are presented herein. Bright photoluminescence, good quantum yield and long radiative lifetime, coupled with remarkable stability in physiological environment, open perspectives in the application of as-treated porous silicon nanoparticles to biophotonics and particularly to in vitro and in vivo imaging.