Precursor-dependent optical and structural properties of eleven NIR-emissive graphene quantum dots for bioimaging applications
Source abstract
Abstract
Abstract Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have emerged as important bioimaging tools because of their biocompatibility and the ability of some to perform deep-penetration near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging. The development of NIR-fluorescent GQDs from various precursors can enhance their use in multiplex imaging, multi-analyte sensing, and combination therapy delivery. Herein, we present the synthesis of an unprecedented set of 11 distinct GQD structures capable of NIR fluorescence, achieved through microwave-assisted bottom-up carbonization of 11 precursors: ascorbic acid, chitosan, citric acid–urea, dextran, glucose, glucosamine hydrochloride, hyaluronic acid, L-glutamic acid, polyethylene glycol, sodium cholate, or sodium citrate. All GQDs exhibit biocompatibility at up to 2.20 mg ml −1 and can be tracked in vitro by their NIR fluorescence, while demonstrating effective internalization in human embryonic kidney-293 cells. This work provides a unique, comprehensive study, offering versatility in synthesis and physical/chemical properties of biocompatible NIR-emitting GQDs suited for a range of bioimaging applications.
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Research context
OpenAlex topics: Carbon and Quantum Dots Applications · Graphene and Nanomaterials Applications · Nanoplatforms for cancer theranostics
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
References (100+)
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