Review on Quantum Dot Nanocarriers for Targeted Drug Delivery: Design Strategies, Multi‐Stimuli Responsiveness, and Theranostic Applications in Precision Nanomedicine

ABSTRACT Quantum dots (QDs) provide a nanoscopic solution with nearly macroscopic potential in a time when accuracy and customization continue to advance healthcare. These fluorescent nanocrystals are revolutionizing drug delivery by integrating treatment accuracy, real‐time imaging, and intelligent responsiveness into a single platform. This review examines how advances in QD design have transformed these materials from passive imaging probes into smart nanocarriers capable of adaptive and precision‐controlled therapeutic intervention. Particular emphasis is placed on the relationship between QD composition, surface engineering, and biological performance. The review highlights how these factors govern drug loading, targeting efficiency, stimuli responsiveness, and theranostic capability. Modern advances in pH‐, redox‐, enzyme‐, and light‐responsive QDs, as well as more sophisticated multi‐stimuli and logic‐gate systems, are considered. This integrates multiple pathological signals to improve therapeutic precision. Beyond summarizing technological advances, critical attention is given to the trade‐offs between multifunctionality and clinical translatability. The challenges associated with toxicity, reproducibility, scalability, and regulatory acceptance are also discussed. The review also explores how machine learning (ML) is now accelerating the optimization of QD designs. Overall, the recent developments can be considered as an important step toward the creation of a next‐generation QD‐based multifunctional, intelligent, and flexible therapeutic system.