Table 2.

Types and features of microparticles and nanoparticles.

Types of particles	Detection Methods	Advantages	Disadvantages
Polystyrene beads	Immunodetection methods	Batch synthesis [68–70], cheaper [69], concentrating analytes [71,72]	Photobleaching, wide emission spectrum [68]
Quantum Dots	Fluorescence	Excited over wide range, emit over narrow range, brighter than fluorescent dyes [68]	Cellular toxicity, emit in same range as natural cellular fluorescence [73], lack of established protocols [74]
Gold particles	SPR, SERS, two photon scattering, dynamic light scattering	Non-toxic [75], emit in infrared away from natural fluorescence, unique electronic properties [73]	High fabrication costs, availability of analysis equipment [39], size and shape inconsistencies [74]
Carbon nanotubes	electrochemical	Increase binding surface area, maintain conductivity [76], amenable to composite material [77]	Metallic impurities, insolubility, lack of fabrication techniques [74]