Lanthanides have fascinated scientists for more than two centuries now, and since efficient separation techniques were established roughly 50 years ago, they have increasingly found their way into industrial exploitation and our everyday lives. Numerous applications are based on their unique luminescent properties, which are highlighted in this volume. It presents established knowledge about the photophysical basics, relevant lanthanide probes or materials, and describes instrumentation-related aspects including chemical and physical sensors. The uses of lanthanides in bioanalysis and medicine are outlined, such as assays for in vitro diagnostics and research. All chapters were compiled by renowned scientists with a broad audience in mind, providing both beginners in the field and advanced researchers with comprehensive information on on the given subject.

Introduction

Photophysical basics of lanthanides
Lanthanide probes and materials
Luminescent stable chelates and macrocyclic compounds
Particulate labels
Chelating particles
Upconverters
NIR labels
Supramolecules and assemblies
Optical properties and applications of solid lanthanide materials
Lanthanide based chemical and physical sensors
Instrumental aspects on measuring lanthanide luminescence
Direct and time-resolved measurements
Frequency-domain measurements
Imaging systems
Bioanalytical and medical implications
Time-resolved and lifetime assays for in-vitro diagnostics and research
Electrochemiluminescence of lanthanides
Sensitized bioassays
Future of lanthanide luminescence and applications.