Optical Properties of Er$^{3+}$:Y$_{2}$O$_{3}$ nanoparticles for biosensor applications*

The optical characteristics of erbium-doped yttrium oxide nanoparticles have been studied for potential use as fluorescent labeling of biomolecules. A comprehensive study of absorption and emission of these nanoparticles is performed. Luminescent properties of the Er$^{3+}$:Y$_{2}$O$_{3}$ nanoparticles are utilized to study bioluminescent resonance energy transfer (BRET). This study will help us characterize optimal conditions for functionalizing these nanoparticles to induce selective interactions between the rare earth-doped nanoparticles and biological species (e.g. proteins, DNA).