Quantum Dot - Based Spectroscopy for Vonoprazan in Nanomedicine Applications

The gastrointestinal disorders associated with acid such as gastroesophageal reflux disease,
peptic ulcer disease and infection of Helicobacter pylori still remain to have significant
clinical burden on a global scale. Vonoprazan a potassium-competitive acid blocker is a great
improvement over the traditional proton pump inhibitors due to its quick onset of action, its
stability as an acid, and its ability to maintain gastric acid inhibition. However, its utilisation
is limited due to all challenges related to formulation optimisation, focused delivery, and real
time monitoring of therapeutic effects. Nanotechnology and, specifically, quantum dot (QD)
based systems have currently made new strides in addressing these shortcomings. Quantum
dots are nanoscale semiconductor materials which can be used as drug carriers and
spectroscopic probes as they are size-tunable to give fluorescence, exhibit high photostability,
and give a high signal. Vonoprazan conjugated with QD based nanocarriers improves
stability of drugs, allows targeting and controlled delivery of drugs to gastric mucosa and
real-time basis monitoring of drug loading, distribution, and release. QD -based spectroscopy
provides better sensitivity, spatial resolution and theranostic capabilities in comparison to the
traditional methods of analysis. In this review, the pharmacological profile of Vonoprazan,
the use of quantum dot based nanomedicine to enhance drug delivery, and the use of
spectroscopic methods to assist in the real-time analysis and imaging guided treatment are
critically reviewed. Special attention is paid to the safety aspects, such as the replacement of
heavy-metal-based quantum dots with carbon- and silicon-based biocompatible ones,
regulatory and translational issues. Overall, quantum dot nanotechnology and spectroscopy
integration has a potential to form an effective theranostic strategy to potentiate the efficacy,
safety, and personalisation of Vonoprazan treatment in acid-related gastrointestinal diseases.