Biolabeling with nanoparticles based on Y2O3: Nd3+ and luminescence detection in the near-infrared

► Y2O3:Nd3+ nanoparticles were prepared by the combustion method. ► Y2O3:Nd3+ nanomaterials were functionalized using a microwave oven technique. ► Functionalized Y2O3:Nd3+ nanoparticles were used in immunoassay. ► Nd3+ ion acts as the biological probe for optical detection of oxLDL.