II-VI Quantum Dots as Fluorescent Probes for Studying Trypanosomatides

Fluorescence provides a unique method for understanding how biomolecules interact with each other in many levels, from single cell to whole organisms. Researchers commonly use fluorescence-based techniques mainly due to its high specificity and sensitivity (capable of detecting even a single molecule) (Michalet et al., 2006; Giepmans et al., 2006). The evolution of tools based on fluorescence including new techniques (like multiphoton microscopy), new lasers and new fluorescent probes (presenting new features when compared to the traditional organic fluorophores), allowing us to take advantages of the full potential of fluorescence. This is the case of Quantum dots (QDs) that since the end the 90 s have been increasingly used in biological and biomedical field.