Recent progress of upconversion nanoparticles in the treatment and detection of various diseases

Abstract Rare earth-doped upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) have the advantages of a narrow emission peak, large anti-Stokes displacement, negligible autofluorescence and photobleaching, which make them popular in biomedical fields. With the development of biological technology and nanotechnology, great progress has been achieved in use of rare earth-doped UCNPs in the treatment and diagnosis of various diseases. To date, based on the light conversion characteristics of upconverted rare earth nanocrystals, their medical applications are mainly focused on the detection and treatment of tumors. In view of the above situation, this paper focuses on reviewing UCNPs applications for the treatment and detection of various diseases, including atherosclerosis, inflammation, bacterial infections, viruses, and tumors. Finally, challenges and opportunities regarding the use of UCNPs in diseases treatment and detection are discussed. Overall, our goal is to provide readers with a fresh perspective on recent developments in the treatment and detection of various diseases with rare earth-doped upconversion materials.