The present disclosure relates to compositions and methods for the treatment of a disease, e.g., cancer or pathogenic infection, using a bioconjugated nanoparticle comprising a biocompatible quantum dot conjugated to a targeting moiety. The targeting moiety allows for the nanopaticle to bind to a cancer cell or pathogenic organism. The quantum dot, upon excitation by soft x-rays, emits electromagnetic radiation at a frequency of ultraviolet light, thereby allowing for the disruption of the DNA found in the cancer cell or pathogenic organism.
