1
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Krasley A, Li E, Galeana JM, Bulumulla C, Beyene AG, Demirer GS. Carbon Nanomaterial Fluorescent Probes and Their Biological Applications. Chem Rev 2024; 124:3085-3185. [PMID: 38478064 PMCID: PMC10979413 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Fluorescent carbon nanomaterials have broadly useful chemical and photophysical attributes that are conducive to applications in biology. In this review, we focus on materials whose photophysics allow for the use of these materials in biomedical and environmental applications, with emphasis on imaging, biosensing, and cargo delivery. The review focuses primarily on graphitic carbon nanomaterials including graphene and its derivatives, carbon nanotubes, as well as carbon dots and carbon nanohoops. Recent advances in and future prospects of these fields are discussed at depth, and where appropriate, references to reviews pertaining to older literature are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew
T. Krasley
- Janelia
Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, Virginia 20147, United States
| | - Eugene Li
- Division
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California
Institute of Technology, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Jesus M. Galeana
- Division
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California
Institute of Technology, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Chandima Bulumulla
- Janelia
Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, Virginia 20147, United States
| | - Abraham G. Beyene
- Janelia
Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, Virginia 20147, United States
| | - Gozde S. Demirer
- Division
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California
Institute of Technology, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
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2
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Zhi Y, Li X, Wang X, Jia M, Wang Z. Photosynthesis promotion mechanisms of artificial humic acid depend on plant types: A hydroponic study on C3 and C4 plants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170404. [PMID: 38281646 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
It is feasible to improve plant photosynthesis to address the global climate goals of carbon neutrality. The application of artificial humic acid (AHA) is a promising approach to promote plant photosynthesis, however, the associated mechanisms for C3 and C4 plants are still unclear. In this study, the real-time chlorophyll synthesis and microscopic physiological changes in plant leave cells with the application of AHA were first revealed using the real-time chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and Non-invasive Micro-test Technique. The transcriptomics suggested that the AHA application up-regulated the genes in photosynthesis, especially related to chlorophyll synthesis and light energy capture, in maize and the genes in photosynthetic vitality and carbohydrate metabolic process in lettuce. Structural equation model suggested that the photodegradable substances and growth hormones in AHA directly contributes to photosynthesis of C4 plants (0.37). AHA indirectly promotes the photosynthesis in the C4 plants by upregulating functional genes (e.g., Mg-CHLI and Chlorophyllase) involved in light capture and transformation (0.96). In contrast, AHA mainly indirectly promotes C3 plants photosynthesis by increasing chlorophyll synthesis, and the Rubisco activity and the ZmRbcS expression in the dark reaction of lettuce (0.55). In addition, Mg2+ transfer and flux in C3 plant leaves was significantly improved by AHA, indirectly contributes to plant photosynthesis (0.24). Finally, the AHA increased the net photosynthetic rate of maize by 46.50 % and that of lettuce by 88.00 %. Application of the nutrients- and hormone-rich AHA improves plant growth and photosynthesis even better than traditional Hoagland solution. The revelation of the different photosynthetic promotion mechanisms on C3 and C4 plant in this work guides the synthesis and efficient application of AHA in green agriculture and will propose the development of AHA technology to against climate change resulting from CO2 emissions in near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yancai Zhi
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, and School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Xiaona Li
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, and School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China.
| | - Xiaowei Wang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, and School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Minghao Jia
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, and School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Zhenyu Wang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, and School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, China
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3
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Chaudhary M, Singh P, Singh GP, Rathi B. Structural Features of Carbon Dots and Their Agricultural Potential. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:4166-4185. [PMID: 38313515 PMCID: PMC10831853 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c04638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Carbon dots (CDs) have drawn attention due to their enticing physical, chemical, and surface properties. Besides, good conductivity, low toxicity, environmental friendliness, simple synthetic routes, and comparable optical properties are advantageous features of CDs. Further, recently, CDs have been explored for biological systems, including plants. Among biological systems, only plants form the basis for sustainability and life on Earth. In this Review, we reviewed suitable properties and applications of CDs, such as promoting the growth of agricultural plants, disease resistance, stress tolerance, and target transportation. Summing up the available studies, we believe that the applications of CDs are yet to be explored significantly for innovation and technology-based agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Chaudhary
- Department
of Chemistry, Hansraj College, University
of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Priyamvada Singh
- Department
of Chemistry, Miranda House, University
of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Gajendra Pratap Singh
- Disruptive
and Sustainable Technologies for Agricultural Precision, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology
(SMART), 138602 Singapore
| | - Brijesh Rathi
- Department
of Chemistry, Hansraj College, University
of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
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4
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Hosseinifard M, Jurga N, Brandmeier JC, Farka Z, Hlaváček A, Gorris HH, Grzyb T, Ekner-Grzyb A. Influence of surface modification and size of lanthanide-doped upconverting nanoparticles on wheat seedlings. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 347:140629. [PMID: 37949184 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, nanotechnology has found widespread applications in environmental monitoring, medical applications, plant fertilisers, cosmetics and others. Therefore, it is important to study nanomaterials' influence and subsequent risks to the environment and organisms (from production to disposal). Therefore, in the present study, the toxic effects of two surface modifications (poly (ethylene glycol)-neridronate, PEG-Ner and poly (acrylic acid), PAA) in comparison to unmodified, 26 nm- and 52 nm-sized core@shell lanthanide-doped upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs, NaYF4:Yb3+,Er3+@NaYF4) were analysed. Wheat seedlings (Triticum aestivum L.) were chosen as a model organism since this species is one of the most widely cultivated crops. The influence of UCNPs (at concentrations of 0, 10, 50, and 100 μg/mL) on germination percentage, germination rate and growth was studied based on morphological parameters such as root number, root and hypocotyl length, and root and hypocotyl mass. In addition, an assay based on Evans blue staining was conducted to analyse damaged cell membranes and cell death. The type, size and concentration of UCNPs influenced the growth but not the germination of wheat. 52-nm-sized ligand-free UCNPs and the 26-nm-sized UCNPs/PAA decreased plant growth. Moreover, the ligand-free 26-nm-sized UCNPs interacted with the root cell membranes of seedlings. No significant changes were observable regarding viability (tetrazolium chloride reduction assay), oxidative stress and electrolyte leakage from root cells in plants incubated with ligand-free 26-nm-sized UCNPs. Overall, we have shown that the ligand-free UCNPs (of both sizes) had the strongest toxic effect; PAA-modified UCNPs were toxic only at smaller sizes and PEG-Ner-modified UCNPs had no toxic impact. Therefore, PEG-Ner was identified as the safest surface compound among the UCNPs investigated in the study, which may neutralise the harmful effects of nanoparticles on plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjanossadat Hosseinifard
- Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Department of Plant Ecophysiology, Poznań, Poland; University of Tehran, Faculty of Agricultural Technology (Aburaihan), Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding Sciences, Imam Reza Boulevard, Tehran, Iran
| | - Natalia Jurga
- Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Rare Earths, Poznań, Poland
| | - Julian C Brandmeier
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, Brno, Czech Republic; University of Regensburg, Institute of Analytical Chemistry, Chemo- and Biosensors, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Zdeněk Farka
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Antonín Hlaváček
- Institute of Analytical Chemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Hans H Gorris
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomasz Grzyb
- Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Rare Earths, Poznań, Poland
| | - Anna Ekner-Grzyb
- Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Department of Plant Ecophysiology, Poznań, Poland.
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5
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Guirguis A, Yang W, Conlan XA, Kong L, Cahill DM, Wang Y. Boosting Plant Photosynthesis with Carbon Dots: A Critical Review of Performance and Prospects. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2300671. [PMID: 37381636 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202300671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Artificially augmented photosynthesis in nano-bionic plants requires tunable nano-antenna structures with physiochemical and optoelectronic properties, as well as unique light conversion capabilities. The use of nanomaterials to promote light capture across photosystems, primarily by carbon dots, has shown promising results in enhancing photosynthesis through tunable uptake, translocation, and biocompatibility. Carbon dots possess the ability to perform both down and up-light conversions, making them effective light promoters for harnessing solar energy beyond visible light wavelengths.This review presents and discusses the recent progress in fabrication, chemistry, and morphology, as well as other properties such as photoluminescence and energy conversion efficiency of nano-antennas based on carbon dots. The performance of artificially boosted photosynthesis is discussed and then correlated with the conversion properties of carbon dots and how they are applied to plant models. The challenges related to the nanomaterial delivery and the performance evaluation practices in modified photosystems, consideration of the reliability of this approach, and the potential avenues for performance improvements through other types of nano-antennas based on alternative nanomaterials are also critically evaluated. It is anticipated that this review will stimulate more high-quality research in plant nano-bionics and provide avenues to enhance photosynthesis for future agricultural applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Guirguis
- School of Life & Environment Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3216, Australia
| | - Wenrong Yang
- School of Life & Environment Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3216, Australia
| | - Xavier A Conlan
- School of Life & Environment Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3216, Australia
| | - Lingxue Kong
- Institute for Frontier Materials, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3216, Australia
| | - David M Cahill
- School of Life & Environment Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3216, Australia
| | - Yichao Wang
- School of Life & Environment Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3216, Australia
- School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
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6
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Garcia-Millan T, Ramos-Soriano J, Ghirardello M, Liu X, Santi CM, Eloi JC, Pridmore N, Harniman RL, Morgan DJ, Hughes S, Davis SA, Oliver TAA, Kurian KM, Galan MC. Multicolor Photoluminescent Carbon Dots à La Carte for Biomedical Applications. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:44711-44721. [PMID: 37715711 PMCID: PMC10540137 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c08200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Dual-emission fluorescence probes that provide high sensitivity are key for biomedical diagnostic applications. Nontoxic carbon dots (CDs) are an emerging alternative to traditional fluorescent probes; however, robust and reproducible synthetic strategies are still needed to access materials with controlled emission profiles and improved fluorescence quantum yields (FQYs). Herein, we report a practical and general synthetic strategy to access dual-emission CDs with FQYs as high as 0.67 and green/blue, yellow/blue, or red/blue excitation-dependent emission profiles using common starting materials such as citric acid, cysteine, and co-dopants to bias the synthetic pathway. Structural and physicochemical analysis using nuclear magnetic resonance, absorbance and fluorescence spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy in addition to transmission electron and atomic force microscopy (TEM and AFM) is used to elucidate the material's composition which is responsible for the unique observed photoluminescence properties. Moreover, the utility of the probes is demonstrated in the clinical setting by the synthesis of green/blue emitting antibody-CD conjugates which are used for the immunohistochemical staining of human brain tissues of glioblastoma patients, showing detection under two different emission channels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Javier Ramos-Soriano
- School
of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K.
| | - Mattia Ghirardello
- School
of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K.
| | - Xia Liu
- Bristol
Medical School, Public Health Sciences, Southmead Hospital, University of Bristol, Southmead Road, Bristol BS8 NB, U.K.
| | | | - Jean-Charles Eloi
- School
of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K.
| | - Natalie Pridmore
- School
of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K.
| | - Robert L. Harniman
- School
of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K.
| | - David J. Morgan
- Cardiff
Catalysis Institute, Cardiff University, Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3AT, U.K.
- HarwellXPS—The
EPSRC National Facility for Photoelectron, Spectroscopy, Research Complex at Harwell (RCaH), Didcot OX11 0FA, U.K.
| | - Stephen Hughes
- DST
Innovations Ltd, Unit
6a Bridgend Business Centre, Bennett Street, Bridgend CF31 3SH, U.K.
| | - Sean A. Davis
- School
of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K.
| | - Thomas A. A. Oliver
- School
of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K.
| | - Kathreena M. Kurian
- Bristol
Medical School, Public Health Sciences, Southmead Hospital, University of Bristol, Southmead Road, Bristol BS8 NB, U.K.
| | - M. Carmen Galan
- School
of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K.
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7
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A/P Chowmasundaram Y, Tan TL, Nulit R, Jusoh M, Rashid SA. Recent developments, applications and challenges for carbon quantum dots as a photosynthesis enhancer in agriculture. RSC Adv 2023; 13:25093-25117. [PMID: 37622012 PMCID: PMC10445218 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra01217d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the world's population is expanding, mankind may be faced with a huge dilemma in the future, which is food scarcity. The situation can be mitigated by employing sustainable cutting-edge agricultural methods to maintain the food supply chain. In recent years, carbon quantum dots (CQD), a member of the well-known carbon-based nanomaterials family, have given rise to a new generation of technologies that have the potential to revolutionise horticulture and agriculture research. CQD has drawn much attention from the research community in agriculture owing to their remarkable properties such as good photoluminescence behaviour, high biocompatibility, photo-induced electron transfer, low cost, and low toxicity. These unique properties have led CQD to become a promising material to increase plant growth and yield in the agriculture field. This review paper highlights the recent advances of CQD application in plant growth and photosynthesis rate at different concentrations, with a focus on CQD uptake and translocation, as well as electron transfer mechanism. The toxicity and biocompatibility studies of CQD, as well as industrial scale applications of CQD for agriculture are discussed. Finally, the current challenges of the present and future perspectives in this agriculture research are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamuna A/P Chowmasundaram
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Universiti Putra Malaysia 43400 UPM Serdang Selangor Malaysia
| | - Tong Ling Tan
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Universiti Putra Malaysia 43400 UPM Serdang Selangor Malaysia
| | - Rosimah Nulit
- Department of Biology, Faculty Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia 43400 UPM Serdang Selangor Malaysia
| | - Mashitah Jusoh
- Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia 43400 Selangor Malaysia
| | - Suraya Abdul Rashid
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Universiti Putra Malaysia 43400 UPM Serdang Selangor Malaysia
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Putra Malaysia 43400 UPM Serdang Selangor Malaysia
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8
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Ilyas MZ, Park H, Baek YS, Sa KJ, Kim MJ, Lee JK. Efficacy of Carbon Nanodots and Manganese Ferrite (MnFe 2O 4) Nanoparticles in Stimulating Growth and Antioxidant Activity in Drought-Stressed Maize Inbred Lines. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2922. [PMID: 37631134 PMCID: PMC10458536 DOI: 10.3390/plants12162922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Despite being the third most-consumed crop, maize (Zea mays L.) is highly vulnerable to drought stress. The predominant secondary metabolite in plants is phenolic acids, which scavenge reactive oxygen species to minimize oxidative stress under drought stress. Herein, the effect of carbon nanodots (CND) and manganese ferrite (MnFe2O4) nanoparticles (NP) on the drought stress tolerance of maize has been studied. The experimental results revealed that the highest leaf blade length (54.0 cm) and width (3.9 cm), root length (45.2 cm), stem diameter (11.1 mm), root fresh weight (7.0 g), leaf relative water content (84.8%) and chlorogenic (8.7 µg/mL), caffeic (3.0 µg/mL) and syringic acid (1.0 µg/mL) contents were demonstrated by CND-treated (10 mg L-1) inbred lines (GP5, HW19, HCW2, 17YS6032, HCW3, HCW4, HW7, HCW2, and 16S8068-9, respectively). However, the highest shoot length (71.5 cm), leaf moisture content (83.9%), shoot fresh weight (12.5 g), chlorophyll content (47.3), and DPPH free radical scavenging activity (34.1%) were observed in MnFe2O4 NP-treated (300 mg L-1) HF12, HW15, 11BS8016-7, HW15, HW12, and KW7 lines, respectively. The results indicate that CND and MnFe2O4 NP can mitigate drought stress effects on different accessions of the given population, as corroborated by improvements in growth and physio-biochemical traits among several inbred lines of maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Zahaib Ilyas
- Department of Applied Plant Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea; (M.Z.I.); (H.P.); (K.J.S.); (M.J.K.)
| | - Hyeon Park
- Department of Applied Plant Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea; (M.Z.I.); (H.P.); (K.J.S.); (M.J.K.)
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea;
| | - Young Sun Baek
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea;
| | - Kyu Jin Sa
- Department of Applied Plant Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea; (M.Z.I.); (H.P.); (K.J.S.); (M.J.K.)
| | - Myong Jo Kim
- Department of Applied Plant Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea; (M.Z.I.); (H.P.); (K.J.S.); (M.J.K.)
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea;
| | - Ju Kyong Lee
- Department of Applied Plant Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea; (M.Z.I.); (H.P.); (K.J.S.); (M.J.K.)
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea;
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9
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Han F, Wang P, Chen X, Zhao H, Zhu Q, Song Y, Nie Y, Li Y, Guo M, Niu S. An ethylene-induced NAC transcription factor acts as a multiple abiotic stress responsor in conifer. HORTICULTURE RESEARCH 2023; 10:uhad130. [PMID: 37560016 PMCID: PMC10407601 DOI: 10.1093/hr/uhad130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
The proper response to various abiotic stresses is essential for plants' survival to overcome their sessile nature, especially for perennial trees with very long-life cycles. However, in conifers, the molecular mechanisms that coordinate multiple abiotic stress responses remain elusive. Here, the transcriptome response to various abiotic stresses like salt, cold, drought, heat shock and osmotic were systematically detected in Pinus tabuliformis (P. tabuliformis) seedlings. We found that four transcription factors were commonly induced by all tested stress treatments, while PtNAC3 and PtZFP30 were highly up-regulated and co-expressed. Unexpectedly, the exogenous hormone treatment assays and the content of the endogenous hormone indicates that the upregulation of PtNAC3 and PtZFP30 are mediated by ethylene. Time-course assay showed that the treatment by ethylene immediate precursor, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), activated the expression of PtNAC3 and PtZFP30 within 8 hours. We further confirm that the PtNAC3 can directly bind to the PtZFP30 promoter region and form a cascade. Overexpression of PtNAC3 enhanced unified abiotic stress tolerance without growth penalty in transgenic Arabidopsis and promoted reproductive success under abiotic stress by shortening the lifespan, suggesting it has great potential as a biological tool applied to plant breeding for abiotic stress tolerance. This study provides novel insights into the hub nodes of the abiotic stresses response network as well as the environmental adaptation mechanism in conifers, and provides a potential biofortification tool to enhance plant unified abiotic stress tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangxu Han
- National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Peiyi Wang
- National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xi Chen
- National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Huanhuan Zhao
- National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Qianya Zhu
- National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yitong Song
- National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yumeng Nie
- National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yue Li
- National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Meina Guo
- National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Shihui Niu
- National Engineering Research Center of Tree Breeding and Ecological Restoration, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
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10
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Jing X, Liu Y, Liu X, Wang XF, You C, Chang D, Zhang S. Nitrogen-doped carbon dots enhanced seedling growth and salt tolerance with distinct requirements of excitation light. RSC Adv 2023; 13:12114-12122. [PMID: 37082373 PMCID: PMC10111579 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra01514a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous nanomaterials with optical properties have demonstrated excellent capacities to enhance plant growth and stress tolerance. However, the corresponding mechanisms have only been partially characterized, especially the excitation-light dependencies of different actions. Here, nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N-CDs) were developed to explore the excitation-light dependence in N-CD-induced growth enhancement and salt tolerance. Compared to the control, N-CDs induced significant enhancements in Arabidopsis thaliana growth under excitation light, including fresh/dry weight of shoot (21.07% and 16.87%), chlorophyll content (9.17%), soluble sugar content (23.41%), leaf area (28.68%), total root length (34.07%) and root tip number (46.69%). In the absence of excitation light, N-CD-treated seedlings exhibited little differences in these parameters, except the enhancements in root length (24.51%) and root tip number (10.24%). On the other hand, N-CD-treatment could improve seedling salt tolerance with or without excitation light. Under salt stress (150 mM NaCl), in the presence of excitation light, the N-CDs treatment significantly increased shoot/root fresh weight and chlorophyll content by 43.29%, 50.66% and 22.59%, and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) content and relative conductivity by 17.59% and 32.58% compared to the control group. In the absence of excitation light, significant enhancements in shoot/root fresh weight (34.22%, 32.60%) and chlorophyll content (10.45%), and obvious decreases in MDA content (28.84%) and relative conductivity (16.13%) were also found. These results indicated that N-CDs only induced growth enhancement under excitation light, but they improved salt tolerance with and without excitation light, suggesting that the two effects occurred via distinct signaling pathways. This study revealed the excitation-light dependencies of nanomaterial-involved agriculture applications, providing insight into designing more efficient nanomaterials in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuli Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Green Fertilizer Technology Innovation Center, Apple Technology Innovation Center of Shandong Province, College of Horticulture Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University Taian Shandong China
| | - Yankai Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Green Fertilizer Technology Innovation Center, Apple Technology Innovation Center of Shandong Province, College of Horticulture Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University Taian Shandong China
| | - Xuzhe Liu
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Film Application of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Chemistry and Material Science, Shandong Agricultural University Taian Shandong China
| | - Xiao-Fei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Green Fertilizer Technology Innovation Center, Apple Technology Innovation Center of Shandong Province, College of Horticulture Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University Taian Shandong China
| | - Chunxiang You
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Green Fertilizer Technology Innovation Center, Apple Technology Innovation Center of Shandong Province, College of Horticulture Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University Taian Shandong China
| | - Dayong Chang
- Yantai Goodly Biological Technology Co., Ltd. Yantai Shandong China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Film Application of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Chemistry and Material Science, Shandong Agricultural University Taian Shandong China
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11
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Ramos-Soriano J, Ghirardello M, Galan MC. Carbon-based glyco-nanoplatforms: towards the next generation of glycan-based multivalent probes. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:9960-9985. [PMID: 36416290 PMCID: PMC9743786 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00741j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Cell surface carbohydrates mediate a wide range of carbohydrate-protein interactions key to healthy and disease mechanisms. Many of such interactions are multivalent in nature and in order to study these processes at a molecular level, many glycan-presenting platforms have been developed over the years. Among those, carbon nanoforms such as graphene and their derivatives, carbon nanotubes, carbon dots and fullerenes, have become very attractive as biocompatible platforms that can mimic the multivalent presentation of biologically relevant glycosides. The most recent examples of carbon-based nanoplatforms and their applications developed over the last few years to study carbohydrate-mediate interactions in the context of cancer, bacterial and viral infections, among others, are highlighted in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Ramos-Soriano
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK.
- Glycosystems Laboratory, Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas (IIQ), CSIC and Universidad de Sevilla, Américo Vespucio, 49, 41092 Sevilla, Spain.
| | - Mattia Ghirardello
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK.
- Departamento de Química, Universidad de La Rioja, Calle Madre de Dios 53, 26006 Logroño, Spain.
| | - M Carmen Galan
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK.
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12
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Santana I, Jeon SJ, Kim HI, Islam MR, Castillo C, Garcia GFH, Newkirk GM, Giraldo JP. Targeted Carbon Nanostructures for Chemical and Gene Delivery to Plant Chloroplasts. ACS NANO 2022; 16:12156-12173. [PMID: 35943045 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c02714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Nanotechnology approaches for improving the delivery efficiency of chemicals and molecular cargoes in plants through plant biorecognition mechanisms remain relatively unexplored. We developed targeted carbon-based nanomaterials as tools for precise chemical delivery (carbon dots, CDs) and gene delivery platforms (single-walled carbon nanotubes, SWCNTs) to chloroplasts, key organelles involved in efforts to improve plant photosynthesis, assimilation of nutrients, and delivery of agrochemicals. A biorecognition approach of coating the nanomaterials with a rationally designed chloroplast targeting peptide improved the delivery of CDs with molecular baskets (TP-β-CD) for delivery of agrochemicals and of plasmid DNA coated SWCNT (TP-pATV1-SWCNT) from 47% to 70% and from 39% to 57% of chloroplasts in leaves, respectively. Plants treated with TP-β-CD (20 mg/L) and TP-pATV1-SWCNT (2 mg/L) had a low percentage of dead cells, 6% and 8%, respectively, similar to controls without nanoparticles, and no permanent cell and chloroplast membrane damage after 5 days of exposure. However, targeted nanomaterials transiently increased leaf H2O2 (0.3225 μmol gFW-1) above control plant levels (0.03441 μmol gFW-1) but within the normal range reported in land plants. The increase in leaf H2O2 levels was associated with oxidative damage in whole plant cell DNA, a transient effect on chloroplast DNA, and a decrease in leaf chlorophyll content (-17%) and carbon assimilation rates at saturation light levels (-32%) with no impact on photosystem II quantum yield. This work provides targeted delivery approaches for carbon-based nanomaterials mediated by biorecognition and a comprehensive understanding of their impact on plant cell and molecular biology for engineering safer and efficient agrochemical and biomolecule delivery tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Israel Santana
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California-Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Su-Ji Jeon
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California-Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Hye-In Kim
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California-Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Md Reyazul Islam
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California-Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Christopher Castillo
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California-Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Gail F H Garcia
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California-Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Gregory M Newkirk
- Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, University of California-Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Juan Pablo Giraldo
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California-Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
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13
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Mulkerns NMC, Hoffmann WH, Ramos-Soriano J, de la Cruz N, Garcia-Millan T, Harniman RL, Lindsay ID, Seddon AM, Galan MC, Gersen H. Measuring the refractive index and sub-nanometre surface functionalisation of nanoparticles in suspension. NANOSCALE 2022; 14:8145-8152. [PMID: 35616244 PMCID: PMC9178438 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr00120a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Direct measurements to determine the degree of surface coverage of nanoparticles by functional moieties are rare, with current strategies requiring a high level of expertise and expensive equipment. Here, a practical method to determine the ratio of the volume of the functionalisation layer to the particle volume based on measuring the refractive index of nanoparticles in suspension is proposed. As a proof of concept, this technique is applied to poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanoparticles and semicrystalline carbon dots functionalised with different surface moieties, yielding refractive indices that are commensurate to those from previous literature and Mie theory. In doing so, it is demonstrated that this technique is able to optically detect differences in surface functionalisation or composition of nanometre-sized particles. This non-destructive and rapid method is well-suited for in situ industrial particle characterisation and biological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niall M C Mulkerns
- H. H. Wills Physics Laboratory, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TL, UK.
- Bristol Centre for Functional Nanomaterials, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TL, UK
| | - William H Hoffmann
- H. H. Wills Physics Laboratory, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TL, UK.
- Bristol Centre for Functional Nanomaterials, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TL, UK
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TS, UK
| | | | | | - Teodoro Garcia-Millan
- Bristol Centre for Functional Nanomaterials, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TL, UK
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TS, UK
| | | | - Ian D Lindsay
- H. H. Wills Physics Laboratory, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TL, UK.
- Bristol Centre for Functional Nanomaterials, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TL, UK
| | - Annela M Seddon
- H. H. Wills Physics Laboratory, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TL, UK.
- Bristol Centre for Functional Nanomaterials, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TL, UK
| | - M Carmen Galan
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TS, UK
| | - Henkjan Gersen
- H. H. Wills Physics Laboratory, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TL, UK.
- Bristol Centre for Functional Nanomaterials, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TL, UK
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14
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Garcia-Millan T, Swift TA, Morgan DJ, Harniman RL, Masheder B, Hughes S, Davis SA, Oliver TAA, Galan MC. Small variations in reaction conditions tune carbon dot fluorescence. NANOSCALE 2022; 14:6930-6940. [PMID: 35466987 PMCID: PMC9109711 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr01306a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The development of robust and reproducible synthetic strategies for the production of carbon dots (CDs) with improved fluorescence quantum yields and distinct emission profiles is of great relevance given the vast range of applications of CDs. The fundamental understanding at a molecular level of their formation mechanism, chemical structure and how these parameters are correlated to their photoluminescence (PL) properties is thus essential. In this study, we describe the synthesis and structural characterization of a range of CDs with distinct physico-chemical properties. The materials were prepared under three minutes of microwave irradiation using the same common starting materials (D-glucosamine hydrochloride 1 and ethylenediamine 2) but modifying the stoichiometry of the reagents. We show that small variation in reaction conditions leads to changes in the fluorescent behaviour of the CDs, especially in the selective enhancement of overlapped fluorescence bands. Structural analysis of the different CD samples suggested different reaction pathways during the CD formation and surface passivation, with the latter step being key to the observed differences. Moreover, we demonstrate that these materials have distinct reversible response to pH changes, which we can be attribute to different behaviour towards protonation/deprotonation events of distinct emission domains present within each nanomaterial. Our results highlight the importance of understanding the reaction pathways that lead to the formation of this carbon-based nanomaterials and how this can be exploited to develop tailored materials towards specific applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas A Swift
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol, BS8 1TS, UK.
| | - David J Morgan
- Cardiff Catalysis Institute, Cardiff University, Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 3AT, UK
- HarwellXPS, - ESPRC National Facility for XPS, Research Complex at Harwell (RcAH), Didcot, Oxon OX11 0FA, UK
| | - Robert L Harniman
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol, BS8 1TS, UK.
| | - Benjamin Masheder
- DST Innovations Ltd, Unit 6a Bridgend Business Centre, Bennett Street, Bridgend, CF31 3SH, UK
| | - Stephen Hughes
- DST Innovations Ltd, Unit 6a Bridgend Business Centre, Bennett Street, Bridgend, CF31 3SH, UK
| | - Sean A Davis
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol, BS8 1TS, UK.
| | - Thomas A A Oliver
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol, BS8 1TS, UK.
| | - M Carmen Galan
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock's Close, Bristol, BS8 1TS, UK.
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15
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Li Y, Tang Z, Pan Z, Wang R, Wang X, Zhao P, Liu M, Zhu Y, Liu C, Wang W, Liang Q, Gao J, Yu Y, Li Z, Lei B, Sun J. Calcium-Mobilizing Properties of Salvia miltiorrhiza-Derived Carbon Dots Confer Enhanced Environmental Adaptability in Plants. ACS NANO 2022; 16:4357-4370. [PMID: 35200008 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c10556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Biomass-derived carbon dots (CDs) are promising nanotools for agricultural applications and function as a reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger to alleviate plant oxidative stress under adverse environments. Nevertheless, plants need ROS burst to fully activate Ca2+-regulated defensive signaling pathway. The underlying mechanism of CDs to improve plant environmental adaptability without ROS is largely unknown. Here, Salvia miltiorrhiza-derived CDs triggered ROS-independent Ca2+ mobilization in plant roots. Mechanistic investigation attributed this function mainly to the hydroxyl and carboxyl groups on CDs. CDs-triggered Ca2+ mobilization was found to be dependent on the production of cyclic nucleotides and cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channels. Lectin receptor kinases were verified as essential for this Ca2+ mobilization. CDs hydroponic application promoted Ca2+ signaling and plant environmental adaptability under salinity and nutrient-deficient conditions. All these findings uncover that CDs have a Ca2+-mobilizing property and thus can be used as a simultaneous Ca2+ signaling amplifier and ROS scavenger for crop improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjuan Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Zhonghou Tang
- Xuzhou Institute of Agricultural Sciences in Jiangsu Xuhuai District, Xuzhou 221131, China
| | - Zhiyuan Pan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Ruigang Wang
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- Xuzhou Institute of Agricultural Sciences in Jiangsu Xuhuai District, Xuzhou 221131, China
| | - Ming Liu
- Xuzhou Institute of Agricultural Sciences in Jiangsu Xuhuai District, Xuzhou 221131, China
| | - Yixia Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Chong Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Weichi Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Qiang Liang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Jia Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Yicheng Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Zongyun Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China
| | - Bingfu Lei
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China
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16
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Färkkilä SMA, Kiers ET, Jaaniso R, Mäeorg U, Leblanc RM, Treseder KK, Kang Z, Tedersoo L. Fluorescent nanoparticles as tools in ecology and physiology. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2021; 96:2392-2424. [PMID: 34142416 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Fluorescent nanoparticles (FNPs) have been widely used in chemistry and medicine for decades, but their employment in biology is relatively recent. Past reviews on FNPs have focused on chemical, physical or medical uses, making the extrapolation to biological applications difficult. In biology, FNPs have largely been used for biosensing and molecular tracking. However, concerns over toxicity in early types of FNPs, such as cadmium-containing quantum dots (QDs), may have prevented wide adoption. Recent developments, especially in non-Cd-containing FNPs, have alleviated toxicity problems, facilitating the use of FNPs for addressing ecological, physiological and molecule-level processes in biological research. Standardised protocols from synthesis to application and interdisciplinary approaches are critical for establishing FNPs in the biologists' tool kit. Here, we present an introduction to FNPs, summarise their use in biological applications, and discuss technical issues such as data reliability and biocompatibility. We assess whether biological research can benefit from FNPs and suggest ways in which FNPs can be applied to answer questions in biology. We conclude that FNPs have a great potential for studying various biological processes, especially tracking, sensing and imaging in physiology and ecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanni M A Färkkilä
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - E Toby Kiers
- Department of Ecological Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, NL-1081 HV, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Raivo Jaaniso
- Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwaldi Str 1, 50411, Tartu, Tartumaa, Estonia
| | - Uno Mäeorg
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Roger M Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry, Cox Science Center, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, FL, 33124, U.S.A
| | - Kathleen K Treseder
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, 3106 Biological Sciences III, Mail Code: 2525, 92697, Irvine, CA, U.S.A
| | - Zhenhui Kang
- Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Leho Tedersoo
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
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