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Anter A, Orhan E, Ulusoy M, Polat B, Yıldız M, Kumar A, Di Bartolomeo A, Faella E, Passacantando M, Bi J. Lanthanum(III)hydroxide Nanoparticles and Polyethyleneimine-Functionalized Graphene Quantum Dot Nanocomposites in Photosensitive Silicon Heterojunctions. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2024; 16:22421-22432. [PMID: 38634639 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c02102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Lanthanides are largely used in optoelectronics as dopants to enhance the physical and optical properties of semiconducting devices. In this study, lanthanum(III)hydroxide nanoparticles (La(OH)3NPs) are used as a dopant of polyethylenimine (PEI)-functionalized nitrogen (N)-doped graphene quantum dots (PEI-NGQDs). The La(OH)3NPs-dopedPEI-NGQDs nanocomposites are prepared from La(NO)3 in a single step by a green novel method and are characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Deposited over an n-type Si wafer, the La(OH)3NPs-dopedPEI-NGQDs nanocomposites form Schottky diodes. The I-V characteristics and the photoresponse of the diodes are investigated as a function of the illumination intensity in the range 0-110 mW cm-2 and at room temperature. It is found that the rectification ratio and ideality factor of the diode decrease, while the Schottky barrier and series resistance increase with the enhancing illuminations. As a photodetector, the La(OH)3NPs-dopedPEI-NGQDs/n-Si heterojunction exhibits an appreciable responsivity of 3.9 × 10-3 AW-1 under 22 mW cm-2 at -0.3 V bias and a maximum detectivity of 8.7 × 108 Jones under 22 mW cm-2 at -0.5 V. This study introduces the green synthesis and presents the structural, electrical, and optoelectronic properties of La(OH)3NPs-dopedPEI-NGQDs, demonstrating that these nanocomposites can be promising for optoelectronic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aslıhan Anter
- Department of Physics, Gazi University, Ankara 06500, Türkiye
| | - Elif Orhan
- Department of Physics, Gazi University, Ankara 06500, Türkiye
| | - Murat Ulusoy
- Department of Physics, Gazi University, Ankara 06500, Türkiye
| | - Barış Polat
- Industrial Engineering, Ankara Medipol University, Ankara 06050, Türkiye
| | - Mustafa Yıldız
- Department of Chemistry, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale 17100, Türkiye
| | - Arun Kumar
- Department of Physics "E.R. Caianiello", University of Salerno, Fisciano, Salerno 84084, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Physics "E.R. Caianiello", University of Salerno, Fisciano, Salerno 84084, Italy
| | - Enver Faella
- Department of Physical and Chemical Science, University of L'Aquila, Coppito, L'Aquila 67100, Italy
| | - Maurizio Passacantando
- Department of Physical and Chemical Science, University of L'Aquila, Coppito, L'Aquila 67100, Italy
| | - Jinshun Bi
- Institute of Microelectronics, Chinese Acedemy Science (CAS), Beijing 10010, China
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Su Y, Ye K, Hu J, Zhang Z, Wang Y, Geng B, Pan D, Shen L. Graphene Quantum Dots Eradicate Resistant and Metastatic Cancer Cells by Enhanced Interfacial Inhibition. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2304648. [PMID: 38597827 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202304648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Drug-resistant and metastatic cancer cells such as a small population of cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a crucial role in metastasis and relapse. Conventional small-molecule chemotherapeutics, however, are unable to eradicate drug-resistant CSCs owing to limited interface inhibitory effects. Herein, it is reported that enhanced interfacial inhibition leading to eradication of drug-resistant CSCs can be dramatically induced by self-insertion of bioactive graphene quantum dots (GQDs) into DNA major groove (MAG) sites in cancer cells. Since transcription factors regulate gene expression at the MAG site, MAG-targeted GQDs exert greatly enhanced interfacial inhibition, downregulating the expression of a collection of cancer stem genes such as ALDH1, Notch1, and Bmi1. Moreover, the nanoscale interface inhibition mechanism reverses cancer multidrug resistance (MDR) by inhibiting MDR1 gene expression when GQDs are used at a nontoxic concentration (1/4 × half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50)) as the MDR reverser. Given their high efficacy in interfacial inhibition, CSC-mediated migration, invasion, and metastasis of cancer cells can be substantially blocked by MAG-targeted GQDs, which can also be harnessed to sensitize clinical cytotoxic agents for improved efficacy in combination chemotherapy. These findings elucidate the inhibitory effects of the enhanced nano-bio interface at the MAG site on eradicating CSCs, thus preventing cancer metastasis and recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Su
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Kai Ye
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Jinyan Hu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Zhenlin Zhang
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Bijiang Geng
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Dengyu Pan
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Longxiang Shen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sheyang County People's Hospital, Yancheng, Jiangsu, 224300, China
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Roy R, Holec D, Michal L, Hemzal D, Sarkar S, Sandeep Kumar G, Nečas D, Dhankhar M, Kaushik P, Jénnifer Gómez I, Zajíčková L. Possible charge ordering and anomalous transport in graphene/graphene quantum dot heterostructure. J Phys Condens Matter 2024; 36:265601. [PMID: 38457842 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/ad31bf] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Observations of superconductivity and charge density waves (CDW) in graphene have been elusive thus far due to weak electron-phonon coupling (EPC) interactions. Here, we report a unique observation of anomalous transport and multiple charge ordering phases at high temperatures (T1∼213K,T2∼325K) in a 0D-2D van der Waals (vdW) heterostructure comprising of single layer graphene (SLG) and functionalized (amine) graphene quantum dots (GQD). The presence of functionalized GQD contributed to charge transfer with shifting of the Dirac point ∼ 0.05 eV above the Fermi level (ab initio simulations) and carrier densityn∼-0.3×1012 cm-2confirming p-doping in SLG and two-fold increase in EPC interaction was achieved. Moreover, we elucidate the interplay between electron-electron and electron-phonon interactions to substantiate high temperature EPC driven charge ordering in the heterostructure through analyses of magnetotransport and weak anti-localization (WAL) framework. Our results provide impetus to investigate strongly correlated phenomena such as CDW and superconducting phase transitions in novel graphene based heterostructures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajarshi Roy
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - David Holec
- Department of Materials Science, Montanuniversität Leoben, Franz-Josef-Strasse 18, A-8700 Leoben, Austria
| | - Lukáš Michal
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Dušan Hemzal
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, Masaryk University, Kotlářská, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Saikat Sarkar
- Thin Film and Nanoscience Lab, Department of Physics, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India
| | - Gundam Sandeep Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200 F, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - David Nečas
- Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, 612 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Meena Dhankhar
- National Centre for Nano Fabrication and Characterization, Oersteds Plads-Building 347, Kongens Lyngby 2800 DK, Denmark
| | - Preeti Kaushik
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, Masaryk University, Kotlářská, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - I Jénnifer Gómez
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, Masaryk University, Kotlářská, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Química e Bioloxía (CICA), Universidade da Coruña, Rúa as Carballeiras, 15071 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Lenka Zajíčková
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, Masaryk University, Kotlářská, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
- Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, 612 00 Brno, Czech Republic
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Su Y, Hu J, Wang Y, Li Y, Xiao L, He X, Zhang Z, Cai J, Pan D, Chen Y, Geng B, Li P, Shen L. N-Heterocycle Modified Graphene Quantum Dots as Topoisomerase Targeted Nanoantibiotics for Combating Microbial Infections. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2302659. [PMID: 38011489 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Developing next-generation antibiotics to eliminate multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria/fungi and stubborn biofilms is challenging, because of the excessive use of currently available antibiotics. Herein, the fabrication of anti-infection graphene quantum dots (GQDs) is reported, as a new class of topoisomerase (Topo) targeting nanoantibiotics, by modification of rich N-heterocycles (pyridinic N) at edge sites. The membrane-penetrating, nucleus-localizing, DNA-binding GQDs not only damage the cell walls/membranes of bacteria or fungi, but also inhibit DNA-binding proteins, such as Topo I, thereby affecting DNA replication, transcription, and recombination. The obtained GQDs exhibit excellent broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against non-MDR bacteria, MDR bacteria, endospores, and fungi. Beyond combating planktonic microorganisms, GQDs inhibit the formation of biofilms and can kill live bacteria inside biofilms. RNA-seq further demonstrates the upregulation of riboflavin biosynthesis genes, DNA repair related genes, and transport proteins related genes in methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in response to the stress induced by GQDs. In vivo animal experiments indicate that the biocompatible GQDs promote wound healing in MRSA or C. albicans-infected skin wound models. Thus, GQDs may be a promising antibacterial and antifungal candidate for clinical applications in treating infected wounds and eliminating already-formed biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Su
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Jinyan Hu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Yuan Li
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Longfei Xiao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sheyang County People's Hospital, Yancheng, Jiangsu, 224300, China
| | - Xialing He
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Zhenlin Zhang
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Jinming Cai
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Dengyu Pan
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Yu Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Bijiang Geng
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Ping Li
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Longxiang Shen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sheyang County People's Hospital, Yancheng, Jiangsu, 224300, China
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Xu Q, Li C, Meng X, Duo X, Feng Y. Polyethylenimine-modified graphene quantum dots promote endothelial cell proliferation. Regen Biomater 2024; 11:rbae013. [PMID: 38525325 PMCID: PMC10960926 DOI: 10.1093/rb/rbae013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cell proliferation plays an important role in angiogenesis and treatment of related diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of polyethylenimine (PEI)-modified graphene quantum dots (GQDs) gene vectors on endothelial cell proliferation. The GQDs-cationic polymer gene vectors were synthesized by amidation reaction, and used to deliver pZNF580 gene to Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) for promoting their proliferation. The chemical modification of GQDs can adjust gene vectors' surface properties and charge distribution, thereby enhancing their interaction with gene molecules, which could effectively compress the pZNF580 gene. The CCK-8 assay showed that the cell viability was higher than 80% at higher vector concentration (40 μg/mL), demonstrating that the GQDs-cationic polymer gene vectors and their gene complex nanoparticles (NPs) having low cytotoxicity. The results of the live/dead cell double staining assay were consistent with those of the CCK-8 assay, in which the cell viability of the A-GQDs/pZNF580 (94.38 ± 6.39%), C-GQDs-PEI- polylactic acid-co-polyacetic acid (PLGA)/pZNF580 (98.65 ± 6.60%) and N-GQDs-PEI-PLGA/pZNF580 (90.08 ± 1.60%) groups was significantly higher than that of the Lipofectamine 2000/pZNF580 (71.98 ± 3.53%) positive treatment group. The results of transfection and western blot experiments showed that the vector significantly enhanced the delivery of plasmid to HUVECs and increased the expression of pZNF580 in HUVECs. In addition, the gene NPs better promote endothelial cell migration and proliferation. The cell migration rate and proliferation ability of C-GQDs-PEI-PLGA/pZNF580 and N-GQDs-PEI-PLGA/pZNF580 treatment groups were higher than those of Lipofectamine 2000/pDNA treatment group. Modified GQDs possess the potential to serve as efficient gene carriers. They tightly bind gene molecules through charge and other non-covalent interactions, significantly improving the efficiency of gene delivery and ensuring the smooth release of genes within the cell. This innovative strategy provides a powerful means to promote endothelial cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qirong Xu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qinghai University for Nationalities, Xining 810007, PR China
- Key Laboratory of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of Resource Chemistry and Ecological Environment Protection on Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Xining 810007, PR China
| | - Chen Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qinghai University for Nationalities, Xining 810007, PR China
- Key Laboratory of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of Resource Chemistry and Ecological Environment Protection on Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Xining 810007, PR China
| | - Xiangyan Meng
- Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Xinghong Duo
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qinghai University for Nationalities, Xining 810007, PR China
- Key Laboratory of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of Resource Chemistry and Ecological Environment Protection on Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Xining 810007, PR China
| | - Yakai Feng
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
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Li Z, Cheng Z, Wang Y, Zhang Z, Wu J. Single-layer graphene based resistive humidity sensor enhanced by graphene quantum dots. Nanotechnology 2024; 35:185503. [PMID: 38358678 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ad22ad] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Graphene is broadly applied as sensitive sensing material results from its superb features. Concurrently, as a derivative of graphene with 0D structure, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) offer more possibilities as a supportive sensing material due to its adjustable size and functional group modification. In this work, GQDs are introduced to single-layer graphene (SLG) based humidity sensor to enhance the sensing performance. Specifically, consistent resistance response to relative humidity (RH) is extended from the range of 10%-60% to 10%-90% by contrary to original SLG based sensor. Parallelly, effect of the amount of GQDs is investigated by means of multiple GQDs deposition. As the resultant higher binding efficiency between water molecules and the functional groups of GQDs, improved response rate is observed. For the case of 4-time deposition of GQDs, the response rate (ΔR/R) reaches ∼130% in RH range of 10%-90%. Besides, the response time and recovery time are ∼0.7 s and ∼1.1 s, respectively. The fluctuation of the resistance change of the sensor under constant humidity is less than 5% over a month which demonstrates long-term reliability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Li
- School of Measurement and Communication Engineering, Harbin University of Science and Technology, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhihao Cheng
- School of Measurement and Communication Engineering, Harbin University of Science and Technology, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaping Wang
- School of Measurement and Communication Engineering, Harbin University of Science and Technology, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Zekun Zhang
- School of Measurement and Communication Engineering, Harbin University of Science and Technology, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianhan Wu
- School of Measurement and Communication Engineering, Harbin University of Science and Technology, Harbin, People's Republic of China
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Li Y, Chen L, Yang S, Wei G, Ren X, Xu A, Wang H, He P, Dong H, Wang G, Ye C, Ding G. Symmetry-Triggered Tunable Phosphorescence Lifetime of Graphene Quantum Dots in a Solid State. Adv Mater 2024:e2313639. [PMID: 38353607 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202313639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Studying the phosphorescent mechanisms of carbon nanostructures synthesized by the "bottom-up" approach is key to understanding the structure modulation and the interfacial properties of carbon nanostructures. In this work, the relationships among symmetry of precursors in the "bottom-up" synthesis, structures of products, and phosphorescence lifetimes of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are studied. The symmetry matching of precursors in the formation of a D6h graphene-like framework is considered the key factor in controlling the separability of sp2 domains in GQDs. As the separability of sp2 domains in GQDs increases, the phosphorescence lifetimes (14.8-125.5 ms) of GQDs in the solid state can be tuned. Machine learning is used to define the degree of disorder (S) of the GQD structure, which quantitatively describes the different space groups of precursors. The negative correlation between S and the oscillator strength of GQDs is uncovered. Therefore, S can be recognized as reflective of oscillator strength in the GQD structure. Finally, based on the correlations found between the structures and phosphorescence lifetimes of GQDs, GQDs with an ultralong phosphorescence lifetime (28.5 s) are obtained. Moreover, GQDs with visible phosphorescence emission (435-618 nm) are synthesized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Materials for Integrated Circuits, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Liangfeng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Materials for Integrated Circuits, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Siwei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials for Integrated Circuits, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Genwang Wei
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies and Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Computational Science and Material Design, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Xue Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Materials for Integrated Circuits, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
| | - Anli Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Materials for Integrated Circuits, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
| | - Hang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials for Integrated Circuits, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Peng He
- State Key Laboratory of Materials for Integrated Circuits, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Hui Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Materials for Integrated Circuits, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Microelectronic Science and Engineering, School of Physical Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Caichao Ye
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies and Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Computational Science and Material Design, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Guqiao Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Materials for Integrated Circuits, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
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Cui LW, Fan LY, Shen ZY. Application Research Progress of Nanomaterial Graphene and its Derivative Complexes in Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:CMC-EPUB-138155. [PMID: 38299292 DOI: 10.2174/0109298673251648231106112354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Functional nanomaterial graphene and its derivatives have attracted considerable attention in many fields because of their unique physical and chemical properties. Most notably, graphene has become a research hotspot in the biomedical field, especially in relation to malignant tumors. In this study, we briefly review relevant research from recent years on graphene and its derivatives in tumor diagnosis and antitumor therapy. The main contents of the study include the graphene-derivative diagnosis of tumors in the early stage, graphene quantum dots, photodynamics, MRI contrast agent, acoustic dynamics, and the effects of ultrasonic cavitation and graphene on tumor therapy. Moreover, the biocompatibility of graphene is briefly described. This review provides a broad overview of the applications of graphene and its derivatives in tumors. Conclusion, graphene and its derivatives play an important role in tumor diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wen Cui
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong Tumor Hospital, No. 30, North Tong-yang Road, Pingchao Town, Tongzhou District, Nantong, Jiangsu 226361, China
| | - Lu Yao Fan
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong Tumor Hospital, No. 30, North Tong-yang Road, Pingchao Town, Tongzhou District, Nantong, Jiangsu 226361, China
| | - Zhi Yong Shen
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong Tumor Hospital, No. 30, North Tong-yang Road, Pingchao Town, Tongzhou District, Nantong, Jiangsu 226361, China
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Wang L, Wang W, Wang Y, Tao W, Hou T, Cai D, Liu L, Liu C, Jiang K, Lin J, Zhang Y, Zhu W, Han C. The Graphene Quantum Dots Gated Nanoplatform for Photothermal-Enhanced Synergetic Tumor Therapy. Molecules 2024; 29:615. [PMID: 38338360 PMCID: PMC10856627 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29030615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, the obvious side effects of anti-tumor drugs, premature drug release, and low tumor penetration of nanoparticles have largely reduced the therapeutic effects of chemotherapy. A drug delivery vehicle (MCN-SS-GQDs) was designed innovatively. For this, the mesoporous carbon nanoparticles (MCN) with the capabilities of superior photothermal conversion efficiency and high loading efficiency were used as the skeleton structure, and graphene quantum dots (GQDs) were gated on the mesopores via disulfide bonds. The doxorubicin (DOX) was used to evaluate the pH-, GSH-, and NIR-responsive release performances of DOX/MCN-SS-GQDs. The disulfide bonds of MCN-SS-GQDs can be ruptured under high glutathione concentration in the tumor microenvironment, inducing the responsive release of DOX and the detachment of GQDs. The local temperature of a tumor increases significantly through the photothermal conversion of double carbon materials (MCN and GQDs) under near-infrared light irradiation. Local hyperthermia can promote tumor cell apoptosis, accelerate the release of drugs, and increase the sensitivity of tumor cells to chemotherapy, thus increasing treatment effect. At the same time, the detached GQDs can take advantage of their extremely small size (5-10 nm) to penetrate deeply into tumor tissues, solving the problem of low permeability of traditional nanoparticles. By utilizing the photothermal properties of GQDs, synergistic photothermal conversion between GQDs and MCN was realized for the purpose of synergistic photothermal treatment of superficial and deep tumor tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lipin Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (L.W.); (W.W.); (Y.W.); (W.T.); (T.H.); (C.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Wenbao Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (L.W.); (W.W.); (Y.W.); (W.T.); (T.H.); (C.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Yufang Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (L.W.); (W.W.); (Y.W.); (W.T.); (T.H.); (C.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Wenli Tao
- School of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (L.W.); (W.W.); (Y.W.); (W.T.); (T.H.); (C.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Tingxing Hou
- School of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (L.W.); (W.W.); (Y.W.); (W.T.); (T.H.); (C.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Defu Cai
- Institute of Medicine and Drug Research, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (D.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Likun Liu
- Institute of Medicine and Drug Research, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (D.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Chang Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (L.W.); (W.W.); (Y.W.); (W.T.); (T.H.); (C.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Ke Jiang
- Qiqihar Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Qiqihar 161006, China;
| | - Jiayin Lin
- College of Discipline Inspection and Supervision, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China;
| | - Yujing Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (L.W.); (W.W.); (Y.W.); (W.T.); (T.H.); (C.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Wenquan Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (L.W.); (W.W.); (Y.W.); (W.T.); (T.H.); (C.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Cuiyan Han
- School of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (L.W.); (W.W.); (Y.W.); (W.T.); (T.H.); (C.L.); (Y.Z.)
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10
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Hu B, Wu Y, Wang K, Guo H, Lei Z, Liu Z, Wang L. Gram-Scale Mechanochemical Synthesis of Atom-Layer MoS 2 Semiconductor Electrocatalyst via Functionalized Graphene Quantum Dots for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution. Small 2024; 20:e2305344. [PMID: 37658517 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202305344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
The development of advanced and efficient synthetic methods is pivotal for the widespread application of 2D materials. In this study, a facile and scalable solvent-free mechanochemical approach is approached, employing graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as exfoliation agents, for the synthesis and functionalization of nearly atom-layered MoS2 nanosheets (ALMS). The resulting ALMS exhibits an ultrathin average thickness of 4 nm and demonstrates high solvent stability. The impressive yield of ALMS reached 63%, indicating its potential for scalable production of stable nanosheets. Remarkably, the ALMS catalyst exhibits excellent HER performance. Moreover, the ALMS catalyst showcases exceptional long-term durability, maintaining stable performance for nearly 200 h, underscoring its potential as a highly efficient and durable electrocatalyst. Significantly, the catalytic properties of ALMS are significantly influenced by ball milling production conditions. The GQD-assisted large-scale machinery synthesis pathway provides a promising avenue for the development of efficient and high-performance ultrathin 2D materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingjie Hu
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, BaoShan District, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China
| | - Yao Wu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Kang Wang
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, BaoShan District, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China
| | - Huazhang Guo
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, BaoShan District, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China
| | - Zhendong Lei
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Zheng Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Liang Wang
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, BaoShan District, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
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11
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Mondal S, Raut J, Sahoo P. Gene Silencing and Gene Delivery in Therapeutics: Insights Using Quantum Dots. FRONT BIOSCI-LANDMRK 2023; 28:364. [PMID: 38179763 DOI: 10.31083/j.fbl2812364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Hemophilia, cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, mental health issues, immunological deficiencies, neuromuscular disease, blindness, and other ailments can all be treated with gene silencing and gene therapy, a growing discipline in medicine. It typically refers to a range of therapeutic techniques in which a patient's body's particular cells are given genetic material designed to correct and erase genetic flaws. The advancements in genetics and bioengineering have paved the way for the conceptualization of gene therapy through the manipulation of vectors, enabling the targeted transfer of extrachromosomal material to specific cells. One of the main focus areas of this methodology is the escalation of delivery vehicles (vectors), primarily plasmids or viruses; it still has difficulties because there is no good delivery mechanism that can precisely deliver stable small interfering Ribonucleic Acid (siRNA) or DNA to the target tissue location. As they are non-fluorescent, the siRNA or DNA delivery procedure is unable to be monitored by these carriers. In the context of quantum dots (QDs), the formation of QD-siRNA or QD/DNA complexes facilitated the real-time monitoring and precise localization of QDs during the silencing, delivery, and transfection processes. The unique dual-modality optical and fluorescent properties exhibited by quantum dots contribute to their utility as versatile imaging probes. The research studies discussed in this review article will provide a framework for designing efficient QD-based nanocarriers that can successfully carry therapeutic genetic tools into targeted cells. As a result of their findings, the researchers developed some unique QDs that successfully attached to the siRNA or DNA and carried it to the desired place. The use of these QD-based delivery devices could enhance the field of gene silencing and gene delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shrodha Mondal
- Department of Chemistry, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan, WB 731235, India
| | - Jiko Raut
- Department of Chemistry, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan, WB 731235, India
| | - Prithidipa Sahoo
- Department of Chemistry, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan, WB 731235, India
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12
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Hoveizi E. Enhancement of nerve regeneration through schwann cell-mediated healing in a 3D printed polyacrylonitrile conduit incorporating hydrogel and graphene quantum dots: a study on rat sciatic nerve injury model. Biomed Mater 2023; 19:015012. [PMID: 38091624 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/ad1576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Despite recent technological advancements, effective healing from sciatic nerve damage remains inadequate. Cell-based therapies offer a promising alternative to autograft restoration for peripheral nerve injuries, and 3D printing techniques can be used to manufacture conduits with controlled diameter and size. In this study, we investigated the potential of Wharton's jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJMSCs) differentiated into schwann cells, using a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) conduit filled with fibrin hydrogel and graphene quantum dots (GQDs) to promote nerve regeneration in a rat sciatic nerve injury model. We investigated the potential of WJMSCs, extracted from the umbilical cord, to differentiate into schwann cells and promote nerve regeneration in a rat sciatic nerve injury model. WJMSCs were 3D cultured and differentiated into schwann cells within fibrin gel for two weeks. A 3 mm defect was created in the sciatic nerve of the rat model, which was then regenerated using a conduit/fibrin, conduit covered with schwann cells in fibrin/GQDs, GQDs in fibrin, and a control group without any treatment (n= 6/group). At 10 weeks after transplantation, motor and sensory functions and histological improvement were assessed. The WJMSCs were extracted, identified, and differentiated. The differentiated cells expressed typical schwann cell markers, S100 and P75.In vivoinvestigations established the durability and efficacy of the conduit to resist the pressures over two months of implantation. Histological measurements showed conduit efficiency, schwann cell infiltration, and association within the fibrin gel and lumen. Rats treated with the composite hydrogel-filled PAN conduit with GQDs showed significantly higher sensorial recovery than the other groups. Histological results showed that this group had significantly more axon numbers and remyelination than others. Our findings suggest that the conduit/schwann approach has the potential to improve nerve regeneration in peripheral nerve injuries, with future therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Hoveizi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
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13
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Elumalai D, Rodríguez B, Kovtun G, Hidalgo P, Méndez B, Kaleemulla S, Joshi GM, Cuberes MT. Nanostructural Characterization of Luminescent Polyvinyl Alcohol/ Graphene Quantum Dots Nanocomposite Films. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2023; 14:5. [PMID: 38202460 PMCID: PMC10780860 DOI: 10.3390/nano14010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
This study focuses on the fabrication of polymer nanocomposite films using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/graphene quantum dots (GQDs). We investigate the relationship between the structural, thermal, and nanoscale morphological properties of these films and their photoluminescent response. Although according to X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and differential thermal analysis (DTA), the incorporation of GQDs does not significantly affect the percentage crystallinity of the PVA matrix, for a range of added GQD concentrations, atomic force microscopy (AFM) showed the formation of islands with apparent crystalline morphology on the surface of the PVA/GQD films. This observation suggests that GQDs presumably act as nucleating agents for island growth. The incorporation of GQDs also led to the formation of characteristic surface pores with increased stiffness and frictional contrast, as indicated by ultrasonic force microscopy (UFM) and frictional force microscopy (FFM) data. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra of the films were found to depend both on the amount of GQDs incorporated and on the film morphology. For GQD loads >1.2%wt, a GQD-related band was observed at ~1650 cm-1 in FT-IR, along with an increase in the PL band at lower energy. For a load of ~2%wt GQDs, the surface morphology was characterized by extended cluster aggregates with lower stiffness and friction than the surrounding matrix, and the PL signal decreased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhanumalayan Elumalai
- Department of Applied Mechanics and Project Engineering, Mining and Industrial Engineering School of Almaden, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 13400 Almadén, Spain; (D.E.); (G.K.); (G.M.J.)
- Thin Films Laboratory, Center for Functional Materials, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamilnadu, India;
| | - Beatriz Rodríguez
- Department of Physics of Materials, University Complutense of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (B.R.); (P.H.); (B.M.)
| | - Ganna Kovtun
- Department of Applied Mechanics and Project Engineering, Mining and Industrial Engineering School of Almaden, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 13400 Almadén, Spain; (D.E.); (G.K.); (G.M.J.)
- Institute of Magnetism NAS of Ukraine and MES of Ukraine, 03142 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Pedro Hidalgo
- Department of Physics of Materials, University Complutense of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (B.R.); (P.H.); (B.M.)
| | - Bianchi Méndez
- Department of Physics of Materials, University Complutense of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (B.R.); (P.H.); (B.M.)
| | - Shaik Kaleemulla
- Thin Films Laboratory, Center for Functional Materials, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamilnadu, India;
| | - Girish M. Joshi
- Department of Applied Mechanics and Project Engineering, Mining and Industrial Engineering School of Almaden, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 13400 Almadén, Spain; (D.E.); (G.K.); (G.M.J.)
- Department of Engineering Physics and Engineering Materials, Institute of Chemical Technology Mumbai, Marathwada Campus, Jalna 431203, Maharashtra, India
| | - M. Teresa Cuberes
- Department of Applied Mechanics and Project Engineering, Mining and Industrial Engineering School of Almaden, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 13400 Almadén, Spain; (D.E.); (G.K.); (G.M.J.)
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14
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Sebastian D, Ramakrishnan K. A coumarin-modified graphene quantum dot-based luminogen for the detection of cysteine in aqueous media. Photochem Photobiol 2023. [PMID: 37960981 DOI: 10.1111/php.13875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
A biocompatible fluorescence sensor for cysteine detection receives wide appreciation recently, because of its importance in the medical field. Functionalized graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are recently emerging biocompatible quantum dots, which are considered as suitable candidates for biomolecule detection. Motivated by this concept, here we have developed a versatile fluorescent probe based on 3-aminocoumarin (AMC) functionalized GQDs for the detection of cysteine (Cys). Modification on GQD with AMC resulted in a stable fluorescent probe with an enhancement in quantum yield of about 84% and 40 nm redshift in emission peak compared with bare GQD. The modified GQD is then used for the sensitive and selective detection of cysteine in aqueous media. The detection of Cys within the linear range of 50 nM to 1.5 μM was achieved with a detection limit (LOD) of 0.86 nM. Here, the AMC-GQD exhibit a turn-off fluorescence sensing behavior. The quenching mechanism was also explored. The sensing process follows dynamic quenching mechanism, which is attributed to the photoinduced charge transfer from AMC-GQD to Cys. The Stern-Volmer plot, energy-level alignment obtained from cyclic voltammetry measurements and density functional theory predictions give a valid proof for this. Furthermore, the sensor was applied efficiently to the determination of Cys in real water samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Sebastian
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, India
| | - Kala Ramakrishnan
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, India
- Inter University Center for Nanomaterials and Devices, CUSAT, Kochi, India
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15
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Liang Y, Gao W, Deng S, Wu D, Jiang Y, Zhang Y, Qiu R. Graphene quantum dots promote migration and differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells. Front Chem 2023; 11:1213507. [PMID: 38025053 PMCID: PMC10679356 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1213507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Graphene and its derivatives have attracted much attention as nanomaterials in bone tissue engineering because of their remarkable ability to induce cell osteogenic differentiation. However, graphene quantum dots (GQDs), as graphene derivatives, little is known about their osteodifferentiation- and osteoinduction-promoting capabilities, especially in the restoration of bone defect caused by periodontitis. Therefore, there is a growing need to investigate the effect of GQDs on periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs). Here, we postulated that GQDs are a promising biocompatible nanomaterial that facilitated the migration and differentiation of PDLSCs, and use laboratory methods like CCK-8, transwell experiments, qRT-PCR, Alizarin red staining and immunofluorescence staining to evaluate. Our experiments confirmed that GQDs did not inhibit cell viability, with most cells remaining viable even at GQDs concentrations of up to 30 μg mL-1. Moreover, GQDs were found to significantly enhance PDLSC migration, with the peak effect observed at concentrations of 5 and 10 μg mL-1. Furthermore, GQDs accelerated osteoblastic differentiation in PDLSCs and induced the mineralization of calcium nodules. Additionally, GQDs were shown to promote fibroblast differentiation in PDLSCs compared to the control group. Thus, GQDs not only possessed low cytotoxicity and good biocompatibility, but also displayed the beneficial capability to migration and differentiation of PDLSCs, which indicated GQDs might be a potential nanomaterial for bone regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Rongmin Qiu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Disease Treatment, Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment for Oral Infectious Diseases, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, Guangxi Clinical Research Center for Craniofacial Deformity, College of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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16
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Im MJ, Kim JI, Hyeong SK, Moon BJ, Bae S. From Pristine to Heteroatom-Doped Graphene Quantum Dots: An Essential Review and Prospects for Future Research. Small 2023; 19:e2304497. [PMID: 37496316 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202304497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are carbon-based zero-dimensional materials that have received considerable scientific interest due to their exceptional optical, electrical, and optoelectrical properties. Their unique electronic band structures, influenced by quantum confinement and edge effects, differentiate the physical and optical characteristics of GQDs from other carbon nanostructures. Additionally, GQDs can be synthesized using various top-down and bottom-up approaches, distinguishing them from other carbon nanomaterials. This review discusses recent advancements in GQD research, focusing on their synthesis and functionalization for potential applications. Particularly, various methods for synthesizing functionalized GQDs using different doping routes are comprehensively reviewed. Based on previous reports, current challenges and future directions for GQDs research are discussed in detail herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Ji Im
- Functional Composite Materials Research Center, Institute of Advanced Composite Materials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), 92 Chudong-ro, Bongdong-eup, Wanju, Jeollabuk-do, 55324, Republic of Korea
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdan-gwagiro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Il Kim
- Functional Composite Materials Research Center, Institute of Advanced Composite Materials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), 92 Chudong-ro, Bongdong-eup, Wanju, Jeollabuk-do, 55324, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Ki Hyeong
- Functional Composite Materials Research Center, Institute of Advanced Composite Materials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), 92 Chudong-ro, Bongdong-eup, Wanju, Jeollabuk-do, 55324, Republic of Korea
- Department of Energy Systems Research and Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ajou University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Joon Moon
- Functional Composite Materials Research Center, Institute of Advanced Composite Materials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), 92 Chudong-ro, Bongdong-eup, Wanju, Jeollabuk-do, 55324, Republic of Korea
- Department of JBNU-KIST Industry-Academia Convergence Research, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, 54896, Republic ofKorea
| | - Sukang Bae
- Functional Composite Materials Research Center, Institute of Advanced Composite Materials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), 92 Chudong-ro, Bongdong-eup, Wanju, Jeollabuk-do, 55324, Republic of Korea
- Department of JBNU-KIST Industry-Academia Convergence Research, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, 54896, Republic ofKorea
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17
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Abstract
Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have received tremendous attention as fluorescent probes for detection of diverse heavy metal ions (HMIs). Nevertheless, the fluorescence sensing mechanisms of versatile GQDs with respect to different HMIs remain elusive. Herein, the fluorescence sensing behaviors and mechanisms of GQDs with amino and carboxyl groups toward commonly encountered Cr6+, Fe3+, Cu2+, Cr3+, Mn2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, and Hg2+ under different pH conditions are systemically explored. The results show that the fluorescence of GQDs can be enhanced by Zn2+/Cd2+ and quenched by other HMIs at pH 5.8, while it can be enhanced by HMIs except Cr6+/Fe3+/Cu2+ at pH 2.0. Systematic studies verify that the fluorescence quenching/enhancing is mediated by the synergistic effect of the inner filter effect (IFE) and the photoinduced electron transfer (PET) or metal orbital-controlled chelation-quenched/enhanced fluorescence (CHQF/CHEF) effect. The strong and weak IFEs of Cr6+/Fe3+ and Cr3+/Cu2+, respectively, are one of the reasons for the fluorescence quenching, while other HMIs have no IFE. Moreover, the PET effect caused by the interaction of GQDs with Hg2+ at pH 5.8 and the CHQF/CHEF effect caused by the interaction of GQDs with other HMIs are also crucial for fluorescence quenching/enhancing. The findings suggest that the pH condition, the existing forms of functional groups on GQDs, and the complexation states of HMIs in aqueous systems dominate the PET and CHQF/CHEF effects. The elucidating of the fluorescence sensing mechanisms of GQDs toward different HMIs paves the way for developing versatile sensing platforms for monitoring of HMI contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangquan Lai
- Key Laboratory of Leather Chemistry and Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center of Clean Technology in Leather Industry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Yong Jin
- Key Laboratory of Leather Chemistry and Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center of Clean Technology in Leather Industry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Liangjie Shi
- Key Laboratory of Leather Chemistry and Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center of Clean Technology in Leather Industry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Rong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Leather Chemistry and Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center of Clean Technology in Leather Industry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
| | - Yupeng Li
- Key Laboratory of Leather Chemistry and Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center of Clean Technology in Leather Industry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, P.R. China
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18
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Gómez IJ, Ovejero-Paredes K, Méndez-Arriaga JM, Pizúrová N, Filice M, Zajíčková L, Prashar S, Gómez-Ruiz S. Organotin(IV)-Decorated Graphene Quantum Dots as Dual Platform for Molecular Imaging and Treatment of Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202301845. [PMID: 37540499 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202301845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
The pharmacological activity of organotin(IV) complexes in cancer therapy is well recognized but their large applicability is hampered by their poor water solubility. Hence, carbon dots, in particular nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots (NGQDs), may be a promising alternative for the efficient delivery of organotin(IV) compounds as they have a substantial aqueous solubility, a good chemical stability, and non-toxicity as well as a bright photoluminescence that make them ideal for theranostic applications against cancer. Two different multifunctional nanosystems have been synthesized and fully characterized based on two fragments of organotin-based cytotoxic compounds and 4-formylbenzoic acid (FBA), covalently grafted onto the NGQDs surface. Subsequently, an in vitro determination of the therapeutic and theranostic potential of the achieved multifunctional systems was carried out. The results showed a high cytotoxic potential of the NGQDs-FBA-Sn materials against breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) and a lower effect on a non-cancer cell line (kidney cells, HEK293T). Besides, thanks to their optical properties, the dots enabled their fluorescence molecular imaging in the cytoplasmatic region of the cells pointing towards a successful cellular uptake and a release of the metallodrug inside cancer cells (NGQDs-FBA-Sn).
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Affiliation(s)
- I Jénnifer Gómez
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 61137, Brno, Czech Republic
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Química e Bioloxía (CICA), Universidade da Coruña, Rúa as Carballeiras, 15071 A, Coruña, Spain
| | - Karina Ovejero-Paredes
- Nanobiotechnology for Life Sciences Group, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Plaza Ramón y Cajal, 28040, Madrid, Spain
- Microscopy and Dynamic Imaging Unit, Fundación Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (CNIC), Calle Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, E-28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Manuel Méndez-Arriaga
- COMET-NANO Group, Departamento de Biología y Geología, Física y Química Inorgánica, E.S.C.E.T., Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Calle Tulipán s/n, E-28933, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - Naděžda Pizúrová
- Institute of Physics of Materials, Czech Academy of Sciences, 61662, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Marco Filice
- Nanobiotechnology for Life Sciences Group, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Plaza Ramón y Cajal, 28040, Madrid, Spain
- Microscopy and Dynamic Imaging Unit, Fundación Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (CNIC), Calle Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, E-28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lenka Zajíčková
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 61137, Brno, Czech Republic
- Central European Institute of Technology - CEITEC, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, 61200, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Sanjiv Prashar
- COMET-NANO Group, Departamento de Biología y Geología, Física y Química Inorgánica, E.S.C.E.T., Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Calle Tulipán s/n, E-28933, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Gómez-Ruiz
- COMET-NANO Group, Departamento de Biología y Geología, Física y Química Inorgánica, E.S.C.E.T., Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Calle Tulipán s/n, E-28933, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
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19
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Fu W, Yin J, Cao H, Zhou Z, Zhang J, Fu J, Warner JH, Wang C, Jia X, Greaves GN, Cheetham AK. Non-Blinking Luminescence from Charged Single Graphene Quantum Dots. Adv Mater 2023; 35:e2304074. [PMID: 37395476 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202304074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Photoluminescence blinking behavior from single quantum dots under steady illumination is an important but controversial topic. Its occurrence has impeded the use of single quantum dots in bioimaging. Different mechanisms have been proposed to account for it, although controversial, the most important of which is the non-radiative Auger recombination mechanism whereby photocharging of quantum dots can lead to the blinking phenomenon. Here, the singly charged trion, which maintains photon emission, including radiative recombination and non-radiative Auger recombination, leads to fluorescence non-blinking which is observed in photocharged single graphene quantum dots (GQDs). This phenomenon can be explained in terms of different energy levels in the GQDs, caused by various oxygen-containing functional groups in the single GQDs. The suppressed blinking is due to the filling of trap sites owing to a Coulomb blockade. These results provide a profound understanding of the special optical properties of GQDs, affording a reference for further in-depth research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Fu
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jiefu Yin
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Huaqiang Cao
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Zhongfu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Special Steel, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Advanced Ferrometallurgy, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Junying Zhang
- School of Physics, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jingjing Fu
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jamie H Warner
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 204 East Dean Keeton Street, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Xiaofang Jia
- School of Physics, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - G Neville Greaves
- Department of Physics, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, SY23 3BZ, UK
- Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, The University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0FS, UK
| | - Anthony K Cheetham
- Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, The University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0FS, UK
- Materials Research Laboratory, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, 93106, USA
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20
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Mohebichamkhorami F, Faizi M, Mahmoudifard M, Hajikarim-Hamedani A, Mohseni SS, Heidari A, Ghane Y, Khoramjouy M, Khayati M, Ghasemi R, Zali H, Hosseinzadeh S, Mostafavi E. Microfluidic Synthesis of Ultrasmall Chitosan/ Graphene Quantum Dots Particles for Intranasal Delivery in Alzheimer's Disease Treatment. Small 2023; 19:e2207626. [PMID: 37309299 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202207626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Nanoparticles (NPs) based therapies for Alzheimer's disease (AD) attract interest due to their ability to pass across or bypass the blood-brain barrier. Chitosan (CS) NPs or graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are promising drug carriers with excellent physicochemical and electrical properties. The current study proposes the combination of CS and GQDs in ultrasmall NP form not as drug carriers but as theranostic agents for AD. The microfluidic-based synthesis of the CS/GQD NPs with optimized characteristics makes them ideal for transcellular transfer and brain targeting after intranasal (IN) delivery. The NPs have the ability to enter the cytoplasm of C6 glioma cells in vitro and show dose and time-dependent effects on the viability of the cells. IN administration of the NPs to streptozotocin (STZ) induced AD-like models lead to a significant number of entrances of the treated rats to the target arm in the radial arm water maze (RAWM) test. It shows the positive effect of the NPs on the memory recovery of the treated rats. The NPs are detectable in the brain via in vivo bioimaging due to GQDs as diagnostic markers. The noncytotoxic NPs localize in the myelinated axons of hippocampal neurons. They do not affect the clearance of amyloid β (Aβ) plaques at intercellular space. Moreover, they showed no positive impact on the enhancement of MAP2 and NeuN expression as markers of neural regeneration. The memory improvement in treated AD rats may be due to neuroprotection via the anti-inflammation effect and regulation of the brain tissue microenvironment that needs to be studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Mohebichamkhorami
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1968917313, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Faizi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 19919-53381, Iran
| | - Matin Mahmoudifard
- Department of Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, 1497716316, Iran
| | | | - Seyedeh Sarvenaz Mohseni
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 19919-53381, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Heidari
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, 1916893813, Iran
| | - Yekta Ghane
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1461884513, Iran
| | - Mona Khoramjouy
- Phytochemistry Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 19919-53381, Iran
| | - Maryam Khayati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, 45139-56184, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, 45139-56184, Iran
| | - Rasoul Ghasemi
- Neurophysiology research center and Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1985717443, Iran
| | - Hakimeh Zali
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1968917313, Iran
- Medical Nanotechnology and Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1968917313, Iran
| | - Simzar Hosseinzadeh
- Medical Nanotechnology and Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1968917313, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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21
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Zhao Z, Wang Z, Yu Y, Hu Y. Localized Electron Density Regulation Effect for Promoting Solid-Liquid Ion Adsorption to Enhance Areal Capacitance of Micro-Supercapacitors. Small 2023; 19:e2302489. [PMID: 37291975 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202302489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The development of flexible microelectronic systems requires the construction of high-energy-output planar micro-supercapacitors (MSCs). Herein, the localized electron density, by introducing graphene quantum dots (GQDs) on the surface of electrodes, is regulated. The enhanced local field intensity promotes ion electrostatic adsorption at the solid-liquid interface, which significantly improves the energy density of MSCs in the confined space. Local electronic structure has been investigated from the perspective of the topological analysis of the electron localization function (ELF) and the electron density. Impressively, the edges of the simulated structure exhibit a higher electron density distribution than the CC skeleton. This finding indicates that the introduced GQDs reinforce the intrinsic electrical double-layer capacitance (EDLC) and the oxygen-bearing functional groups at the edge, further increasing the pseudocapacitance performance. Moreover, the edge electron aggregation effect enables the all-carbon-based symmetric MSCs to exhibit ultra-high areal capacitance (21.78 mF cm-2 ) and excellent cycle stability (86.74% retention after 25 000 cycles). This novel surface local charge regulation strategy is also applied for intensifying ion electrostatic adsorption on Zn-ion hybrid MSCs (polyvalent metal ions) and ion-gel electrolyte MSCs (non-metallic ions). With excellent planar integration, this device demonstrates excellent flexibility and has potential applications in timing and environmental monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Textile and Flexible Interconnection of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- Engineering Research Center for Eco-Dying & Finishing of Textiles, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Research Center for Green and Low-carbon Dyeing & Finishing, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Zixi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Textile and Flexible Interconnection of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- Engineering Research Center for Eco-Dying & Finishing of Textiles, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Research Center for Green and Low-carbon Dyeing & Finishing, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Yingsong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Textile and Flexible Interconnection of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- Engineering Research Center for Eco-Dying & Finishing of Textiles, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Research Center for Green and Low-carbon Dyeing & Finishing, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Yi Hu
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Textile and Flexible Interconnection of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- Engineering Research Center for Eco-Dying & Finishing of Textiles, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Research Center for Green and Low-carbon Dyeing & Finishing, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
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22
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Qiu H, Qu X, Zhang Y, Chen S, Shen Y. Robust PANI@MXene/GQDs-Based Fiber Fabric Electrodes via Microfluidic Wet-Fusing Spinning Chemistry. Adv Mater 2023; 35:e2302326. [PMID: 37354134 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202302326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Two-dimensional transition metal titanium carbide (Ti3 C2 Tx ) as a promising candidate material for batteries and supercapacitors has shown excellent electrochemical performance, but it is difficult to meet practical applications because of its poor morphology structure, low mechanical properties, and expensive process. Here, an applied and efficient method based on microfluidic wet-fusing spinning chemistry (MWSC) is proposed to construct hierarchical structure of MXene-based fiber fabrics (MFFs), allowing the availability of MFF electrodes with ultrastrong toughness, high conductivity, and easily machinable properties. First, a dot-sheet structure constructed by graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and MXene nanosheets with multianchor interaction in the microchannel of a microfluidic device enhances the mechanical strength of MXene fibers; next, the interfused fiber network structure of Ti3 C2 Tx /GQDs fabrics assembled by the MWSC process enhances the deformability of the whole fabrics; finally, the core-shell structure of PANI@Ti3 C2 Tx /GQDs architected by in-situ polymerization growth of polyaniline (PANI) nanofibers provides more ion-accessible pathways and sites for kinetic migration and ion accumulation. Through the morphology and microstructure design, this strategy has directive significance to the large-scale preparation of conductive fabric electrodes and provides a viable solution for simultaneously enhancing mechanical strength and electrochemical performance of conductive fabric electrodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals and Functional Polymer Materials, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, P. R. China
| | - Xiaowei Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals and Functional Polymer Materials, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, P. R. China
| | - Yujiao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals and Functional Polymer Materials, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, P. R. China
| | - Su Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals and Functional Polymer Materials, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, P. R. China
| | - Yizhong Shen
- Engineering Research Center of Bio-Process, Ministry of Education, School of Food & Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, 230009, P. R. China
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23
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Hu X, Xu Y, Liu S, Gudda FO, Ling W, Qin C, Gao Y. Graphene Quantum Dots Nonmonotonically Influence the Horizontal Transfer of Extracellular Antibiotic Resistance Genes via Bacterial Transformation. Small 2023; 19:e2301177. [PMID: 37144438 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202301177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) coexist with antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the environment. Whether GQDs influence ARG spread needs investigation, since the resulting development of multidrug-resistant pathogens would threaten human health. This study investigates the effect of GQDs on the horizontal transfer of extracellular ARGs (i.e., transformation, a pivotal way that ARGs spread) mediated by plasmids into competent Escherichia coli cells. GQDs enhance ARG transfer at lower concentrations, which are close to their environmental residual concentrations. However, with further increases in concentration (closer to working concentrations needed for wastewater remediation), the effects of enhancement weaken or even become inhibitory. At lower concentrations, GQDs promote the gene expression related to pore-forming outer membrane proteins and the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species, thus inducing pore formation and enhancing membrane permeability. GQDs may also act as carriers to transport ARGs into cells. These factors result in enhanced ARG transfer. At higher concentrations, GQD aggregation occurs, and aggregates attach to the cell surface, reducing the effective contact area of recipients for external plasmids. GQDs also form large agglomerates with plasmids and thus hindering ARG entrance. This study could promote the understanding of the GQD-caused ecological risks and benefit their safe application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojie Hu
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, P. R. China
| | - Yanxing Xu
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, P. R. China
| | - Si Liu
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, P. R. China
| | - Fredrick Owino Gudda
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, P. R. China
| | - Wanting Ling
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, P. R. China
| | - Chao Qin
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, P. R. China
| | - Yanzheng Gao
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, P. R. China
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24
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Zhao L, Yin Y, Xiao W, Li H, Feng H, Wang D, Qu C. Rapid Crystallization and Fluorescence of Poly(ethylene terephthalate) Using Graphene Quantum Dots as Nucleating Agents. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:3506. [PMID: 37688132 PMCID: PMC10490498 DOI: 10.3390/polym15173506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) with a diameter of ~3 nm were successfully synthesized and incorporated into a poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) matrix to fabricate PET/GQDs nanocomposites. The impact of GQDs on the crystallization and thermal stability of the PET/GQDs nanocomposites was investigated. It was observed that the addition of only 0.5 wt% GQDs into the nanocomposites resulted in a significant increase in the crystallization temperature (peak temperature) of PET, from 194.3 °C to 206.0 °C during the cooling scan process. This suggested that an optimal concentration of GQDs could function as a nucleating agent and effectively enhance the crystallization temperature of PET. The isothermal crystallization method was employed to analyze the crystallization kinetics of the PET/GQDs nanocomposites, and the data showed that 0.5 wt% GQDs significantly accelerated the crystallization rate. Furthermore, the incorporation of GQDs into the PET matrix imparted photoluminescent properties to the resulting PET/GQDs nanocomposites. The PET crystals with GQDs as crystal nuclei and the crazes caused by defects played a vital role in isolating and suppressing the concentration quenching of GQDs. This effect facilitated the detection of defects in PET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Zhao
- Institute of Petrochemistry, Heilongjiang Academy of Sciences, Harbin 150040, China; (W.X.); (H.L.); (H.F.); (D.W.); (C.Q.)
| | - Yue Yin
- Harbin FRP Institute, Harbin 150036, China;
| | - Wanbao Xiao
- Institute of Petrochemistry, Heilongjiang Academy of Sciences, Harbin 150040, China; (W.X.); (H.L.); (H.F.); (D.W.); (C.Q.)
| | - Hongfeng Li
- Institute of Petrochemistry, Heilongjiang Academy of Sciences, Harbin 150040, China; (W.X.); (H.L.); (H.F.); (D.W.); (C.Q.)
| | - Hao Feng
- Institute of Petrochemistry, Heilongjiang Academy of Sciences, Harbin 150040, China; (W.X.); (H.L.); (H.F.); (D.W.); (C.Q.)
| | - Dezhi Wang
- Institute of Petrochemistry, Heilongjiang Academy of Sciences, Harbin 150040, China; (W.X.); (H.L.); (H.F.); (D.W.); (C.Q.)
| | - Chunyan Qu
- Institute of Petrochemistry, Heilongjiang Academy of Sciences, Harbin 150040, China; (W.X.); (H.L.); (H.F.); (D.W.); (C.Q.)
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25
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Fthenakis ZG. A Generalized Nomenclature Scheme for Graphene Pores, Flakes, and Edges, and an Algorithm for Their Generation and Numbering. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2023; 13:2343. [PMID: 37630928 PMCID: PMC10459746 DOI: 10.3390/nano13162343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, we generalize our recently proposed nomenclature scheme for porous graphene structures to include graphene flakes and (periodic) edges, i.e., nanographenes and graphene nanoribbons. The proposed nomenclature scheme is a complete scheme that similarly treats all these structures. Beyond this generalization, we study the geometric features of graphene flakes and edges based on ideas from the graph theory, as well as the pore-flake duality. Based on this study, we propose an algorithm for the systematic generation, identification, and numbering of graphene pores, flakes, and edges. The algorithm and the nomenclature scheme can also be used for flakes and edges of similar honeycomb systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zacharias G. Fthenakis
- Istituto Nanoscienze, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), 56127 Pisa, Italy; or
- Theoretical and Physical Chemistry Institute, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece
- National Enterprise for nanoScience and nanoTechnology (NEST), Scuola Normale Superiore, 56127 Pisa, Italy
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26
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Jeon H, Zhu R, Kim G, Wang Y. Chirality-enhanced transport and drug delivery of graphene nanocarriers to tumor-like cellular spheroid. Front Chem 2023; 11:1207579. [PMID: 37601907 PMCID: PMC10433752 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1207579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Chirality, defined as "a mirror image," is a universal geometry of biological and nonbiological forms of matter. This geometry of molecules determines how they interact during their assembly and transport. With the development of nanotechnology, many nanoparticles with chiral geometry or chiroptical activity have emerged for biomedical research. The mechanisms by which chirality originates and the corresponding synthesis methods have been discussed and developed in the past decade. Inspired by the chiral selectivity in life, a comprehensive and in-depth study of interactions between chiral nanomaterials and biological systems has far-reaching significance in biomedicine. Here, we investigated the effect of the chirality of nanoscale drug carriers, graphene quantum dots (GQDs), on their transport in tumor-like cellular spheroids. Chirality of GQDs (L/D-GQDs) was achieved by the surface modification of GQDs with L/D-cysteines. As an in-vitro tissue model for drug testing, cellular spheroids were derived from a human hepatoma cell line (i.e., HepG2 cells) using the Hanging-drop method. Our results reveal that the L-GQDs had a 1.7-fold higher apparent diffusion coefficient than the D-GQDs, indicating that the L-GQDs can enhance their transport into tumor-like cellular spheroids. Moreover, when loaded with a common chemotherapy drug, Doxorubicin (DOX), via π-π stacking, L-GQDs are more effective as nanocarriers for drug delivery into solid tumor-like tissue, resulting in 25% higher efficacy for cancerous cellular spheroids than free DOX. Overall, our studies indicated that the chirality of nanocarriers is essential for the design of drug delivery vehicles to enhance the transport of drugs in a cancerous tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yichun Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States
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27
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Liu H, Xu L, Tu H, Luo Z, Zhu F, Deng W, Zou G, Hou H, Ji X. Interfacial Interaction of Multifunctional GQDs Reinforcing Polymer Electrolytes For All-Solid-State Li Battery. Small 2023; 19:e2301275. [PMID: 37081376 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202301275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Solid-state polymer electrolytes are highly anticipated for next generation lithium ion batteries with enhanced safety and energy density. However, a major disadvantage of polymer electrolytes is their low ionic conductivity at room temperature. In order to enhance the ionic conductivity, here, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are employed to improve the poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) based electrolyte. Owing to the increased amorphous areas of PEO and mobility of Li+ , GQDs modified composite polymer electrolytes achieved high ionic conductivity and favorable lithium ion transference numbers. Significantly, the abundant hydroxyl groups and amino groups originated from GQDs can serve as Lewis base sites and interact with lithium ions, thus promoting the dissociation of lithium salts and providing more ion pathways. Moreover, lithium dendrite is suppressed, associated with high transference number, enhanced mechanical properties and steady interface stability. It is further observed that all solid-state lithium batteries assembled with GQDs modified composite polymer electrolytes display excellent rate performance and cycling stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaxin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Laiqiang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Hanyu Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Zheng Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Fangjun Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Wentao Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Guoqiang Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Hongshuai Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Xiaobo Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
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28
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Bhaloo A, Nguyen S, Lee BH, Valimukhametova A, Gonzalez-Rodriguez R, Sottile O, Dorsky A, Naumov AV. Doped Graphene Quantum Dots as Biocompatible Radical Scavenging Agents. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1536. [PMID: 37627531 PMCID: PMC10451549 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is proven to be a leading factor in a multitude of adverse conditions, from Alzheimer's disease to cancer. Thus, developing effective radical scavenging agents to eliminate reactive oxygen species (ROS) driving many oxidative processes has become critical. In addition to conventional antioxidants, nanoscale structures and metal-organic complexes have recently shown promising potential for radical scavenging. To design an optimal nanoscale ROS scavenging agent, we have synthesized ten types of biocompatible graphene quantum dots (GQDs) augmented with various metal dopants. The radical scavenging abilities of these novel metal-doped GQD structures were, for the first time, assessed via the DPPH, KMnO4, and RHB (Rhodamine B protectant) assays. While all metal-doped GQDs consistently demonstrate antioxidant properties higher than the undoped cores, aluminum-doped GQDs exhibit 60-95% radical scavenging ability of ascorbic acid positive control. Tm-doped GQDs match the radical scavenging properties of ascorbic acid in the KMnO4 assay. All doped GQD structures possess fluorescence imaging capabilities that enable their tracking in vitro, ensuring their successful cellular internalization. Given such multifunctionality, biocompatible doped GQD antioxidants can become prospective candidates for multimodal therapeutics, including the reduction of ROS with concomitant imaging and therapeutic delivery to cancer tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Bhaloo
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA; (A.B.); (S.N.); (B.H.L.); (A.V.); (O.S.); (A.D.)
| | - Steven Nguyen
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA; (A.B.); (S.N.); (B.H.L.); (A.V.); (O.S.); (A.D.)
| | - Bong Han Lee
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA; (A.B.); (S.N.); (B.H.L.); (A.V.); (O.S.); (A.D.)
| | - Alina Valimukhametova
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA; (A.B.); (S.N.); (B.H.L.); (A.V.); (O.S.); (A.D.)
| | | | - Olivia Sottile
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA; (A.B.); (S.N.); (B.H.L.); (A.V.); (O.S.); (A.D.)
| | - Abby Dorsky
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA; (A.B.); (S.N.); (B.H.L.); (A.V.); (O.S.); (A.D.)
| | - Anton V. Naumov
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA; (A.B.); (S.N.); (B.H.L.); (A.V.); (O.S.); (A.D.)
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Yu Q, Wang X, Wu W, Feng X, Kong D, Khan U, Ren X, Li L. In Situ Encapsulation of Graphene Quantum Dots in Highly Stable Porphyrin Metal-Organic Frameworks for Efficient Photocatalytic CO 2 Reduction. Molecules 2023; 28:4703. [PMID: 37375258 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28124703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Photocatalytic CO2 reduction to valuable hydrocarbon solar fuel is of great significance but still challenging. Strong CO2 enrichment ability and easily adjustable structures make metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) potential photocatalysts for CO2 conversion. Even though pure MOFs have the potential for photoreduction of CO2, the efficiency is still quite low due to rapid photogenerated electron-hole recombination and other drawbacks. In this work, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) were in situ encapsulated into highly stable MOFs via a solvothermal method for this challenging task. The GQDs@PCN-222 with encapsulated GQDs showed similar Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD) patterns to PCN-222, indicating the retained structure. The porous structure was also retained with a Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area of 2066 m2/g. After incorporation of GQDs, the shape of GQDs@PCN-222 particles remained, as revealed by the scanning electron microscope (SEM). As most of the GQDs were covered by thick PCN-222, it was hard to observe those GQDs using a transmission electron microscope (TEM) and a high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) directly, the treatment of digested GQDs@PCN-222 particles by immersion in a 1 mM aqueous KOH solution can make the incorporated GQDs visible in TEM and HRTEM. The linker, deep purple porphyrins, make MOFs a highly visible light harvester up to 800 nm. The introduction of GQDs inside PCN-222 can effectively promote the spatial separation of the photogenerated electron-hole pairs during the photocatalytic process, which was proved by the transient photocurrent plot and photoluminescence emission spectra. Compared with pure PCN-222, the obtained GQDs@PCN-222 displayed dramatically enhanced CO production derived from CO2 photoreduction with 147.8 μmol/g/h in a 10 h period under visible light irradiation with triethanolamine (TEOA) as a sacrificial agent. This study demonstrated that the combination of GQDs and high light absorption MOFs provides a new platform for photocatalytic CO2 reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Yu
- Institute of Functional Porous Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Xusheng Wang
- Institute of Functional Porous Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Tongxiang Research Institute, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Jiaxing 314500, China
- Zhejiang LINIX Motor Co., Ltd., Jinhua 322118, China
| | - Wenbin Wu
- Institute of Functional Porous Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Xinya Feng
- Institute of Functional Porous Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Deyu Kong
- Institute of Functional Porous Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Usman Khan
- Institute of Functional Porous Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Xiaohui Ren
- The State Key Laboratory of Refractories and Metallurgy, School of Materials and Metallurgy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China
| | - Lan Li
- College of Materials and Chemistry, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China
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Valimukhametova AR, Lee BH, Topkiran UC, Gries K, Gonzalez-Rodriguez R, Coffer JL, Akkaraju G, Naumov A. Cancer Therapeutic siRNA Delivery and Imaging by Nitrogen- and Neodymium-Doped Graphene Quantum Dots. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:3425-3434. [PMID: 37255435 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c00369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
While small interfering RNA (siRNA) technology has become a powerful tool that can enable cancer-specific gene therapy, its translation to the clinic is still hampered by the inability of the genes alone to cell transfection, poor siRNA stability in blood, and the lack of delivery tracking capabilities. Recently, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have emerged as a novel platform allowing targeted drug delivery and fluorescence image tracking in visible and near-infrared regions. These capabilities can aid in overcoming primary obstacles to siRNA therapeutics. Here, for the first time, we utilize biocompatible nitrogen- and neodymium-doped graphene quantum dots (NGQDs and Nd-NGQDs, respectively) for the delivery of Kirsten rat sarcoma virus (KRAS) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) siRNA effective against a variety of cancer types. GQDs loaded with siRNA noncovalently facilitate successful siRNA transfection into HeLa cells, confirmed by confocal fluorescence microscopy at biocompatible GQD concentrations of 375 μg/mL. While the GQD platform provides visible fluorescence tracking, Nd doping enables deeper-tissue near-infrared fluorescence imaging suitable for both in vitro and in vivo applications. The therapeutic efficacy of the GQD/siRNA complex is verified by successful protein knockdown in HeLa cells at nanomolar siEGFR and siKRAS concentrations. A range of GQD/siRNA loading ratios and payloads are tested to ultimately provide substantial inhibition of protein expression down to 31-45%, comparable with conventional Lipofectamine-mediated delivery. This demonstrates the promising potential of GQDs for the nontoxic delivery of siRNA and genes in general, complemented by multiwavelength image tracking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina R Valimukhametova
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth 76129, Texas, United States
| | - Bong Han Lee
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth 76129, Texas, United States
| | - Ugur C Topkiran
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth 76129, Texas, United States
| | - Klara Gries
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg 69117, Germany
| | | | - Jeffery L Coffer
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth 76129, Texas, United States
| | - Giridhar Akkaraju
- Department of Biology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth 76129, Texas, United States
| | - Anton Naumov
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth 76129, Texas, United States
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31
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Tanwar S, Sharma A, Mathur D. A graphene quantum dots-glassy carbon electrode-based electrochemical sensor for monitoring malathion. Beilstein J Nanotechnol 2023; 14:701-710. [PMID: 37346783 PMCID: PMC10280055 DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.14.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) were made via a hydrothermal process with glucose as a precursor undergoing carbonization. Different spectroscopic techniques were used to analyze the optical characteristics of GQDs, including UV-visible, photoluminescence, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy. Atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction were used to characterize the morphological and structural properties of GQDs. An electrochemical sensor was developed by drop casting GQDs on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The sensor detects the organophosphate pesticide malathion in a selective and sensitive manner. Using cyclic voltammetry, the sensor's oxidation-reduction behavior was investigated. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was conducted to study the electrochemical properties of the modified the GQDs/GCE working electrode, which showed excellent charge transfer properties. We measured malathion in varying concentrations between 1 to 30 µM using differential pulse voltammetry, which resulted in a limit of detection of 0.62 nM. GQDs can thus be used to develop electrochemical sensors for the detection of pesticides in water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanju Tanwar
- Centre of Nanotechnology, Rajasthan Technical University, Kota, Rajasthan, India
| | - Aditi Sharma
- Materials Research Centre, Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Dhirendra Mathur
- Centre of Nanotechnology, Rajasthan Technical University, Kota, Rajasthan, India
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32
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Yang Y, Wang B, Zhang X, Li H, Yue S, Zhang Y, Yang Y, Liu M, Ye C, Huang P, Zhou X. Activatable Graphene Quantum-Dot-Based Nanotransformers for Long-Period Tumor Imaging and Repeated Photodynamic Therapy. Adv Mater 2023; 35:e2211337. [PMID: 37025038 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202211337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is considered as an emerging therapeutic modality against cancer with high spatiotemporal selectivity because the utilized photosensitizers (PSs) are only active and toxic upon light irradiation. To maximize its effectiveness, PDT is usually applied repetitively for ablating various tumors. However, the total overdose of PSs from repeated administrations causes severe side effects. Herein, acidity-activated graphene quantum dots-based nanotransformers (GQD NT) are developed as PS vehicles for long-period tumor imaging and repeated PDT. Under the guidance of Arg-Gly-Asp peptide, GQD NT targets to tumor tissues actively, and then loosens and enlarges in tumor acidity, thus promising long tumor retention. Afterwards, GQD NT transforms into small pieces for better penetration in tumor. Upon laser irradiation, GQD NT generates mild hyperthermia that enhances cell membrane permeability and further promotes the PSs uptake. Most intriguingly, the as-prepared GQD NT not only "turns-on" fluorescence/magnetic resonance signals, but also achieves efficient repeated PDT. Notably, the total PSs dose is reduced to 3.5 µmol kg-1 , which is 10-30 times lower than that of other reported works. Overall, this study exploits a smart vehicle to enhance accumulation, retention, and release of PSs in tumors through programmed deformation, thus overcoming the overdose obstacle in repeated PDT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Optics Valley Laboratory, Wuhan, Hubei, 430073, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Baolong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Optics Valley Laboratory, Wuhan, Hubei, 430073, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Optics Valley Laboratory, Wuhan, Hubei, 430073, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Hongchuang Li
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Optics Valley Laboratory, Wuhan, Hubei, 430073, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Sen Yue
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Optics Valley Laboratory, Wuhan, Hubei, 430073, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, International Cancer Center, Laboratory of Evolutionary Theranostics (LET), School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Yunhuang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Optics Valley Laboratory, Wuhan, Hubei, 430073, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Maili Liu
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Optics Valley Laboratory, Wuhan, Hubei, 430073, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Chaohui Ye
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Optics Valley Laboratory, Wuhan, Hubei, 430073, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Peng Huang
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, International Cancer Center, Laboratory of Evolutionary Theranostics (LET), School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences - Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Optics Valley Laboratory, Wuhan, Hubei, 430073, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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Walton-Raaby M, Woods R, Kalyaanamoorthy S. Investigating the Theranostic Potential of Graphene Quantum Dots in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119476. [PMID: 37298426 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with no definitive diagnosis or known cure. The aggregation of Tau protein into neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), which contain straight filaments (SFs) and paired helical filaments (PHFs), is a major hallmark of AD. Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are a type of nanomaterial that combat many of the small-molecule therapeutic challenges in AD and have shown promise in similar pathologies. In this study, two sizes of GQDs, GQD7 and GQD28, were docked to various forms of Tau monomers, SFs, and PHFs. From the favorable docked poses, we simulated each system for at least 300 ns and calculated the free energies of binding. We observed a clear preference for GQD28 in the PHF6 (306VQIVYK311) pathological hexapeptide region of monomeric Tau, while GQD7 targeted both the PHF6 and PHF6* (275VQIINK280) pathological hexapeptide regions. In SFs, GQD28 had a high affinity for a binding site that is available in AD but not in other common tauopathies, while GQD7 behaved promiscuously. In PHFs, GQD28 interacted strongly near the protofibril interface at the putative disaggregation site for epigallocatechin-3-gallate, and GQD7 largely interacted with PHF6. Our analyses revealed several key GQD binding sites that may be used for detecting, preventing, and disassembling the Tau aggregates in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Walton-Raaby
- Department of Chemistry, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Riley Woods
- Department of Chemistry, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
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Zhang H, Gu J, Zhang Y, Guo H, Zhang S, Song J, Liu C, Wang L, Li D, Dai B. Graphene Quantum Dots Modulate Stress Granule Assembly and Prevent Abnormal Phase Transition of Fused in Sarcoma Protein. ACS Nano 2023. [PMID: 37204199 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Protein liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) plays a crucial role in mediating dynamic assembly of different membraneless organelles such as stress granules (SGs). Dysregulation of dynamic protein LLPS leads to aberrant phase transition and amyloid aggregation which is closely associated with neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we found that three types of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) exhibit potent activity in preventing SG formation and promoting SG disassembly. We next demonstrate that GQDs can directly interact with the SGs-containing protein fused in sarcoma (FUS), inhibit and reverse FUS LLPS, and prevent its abnormal phase transition. Moreover, GQDs display superior activity in preventing amyloid aggregation of FUS and disaggregating preformed FUS fibrils. Mechanistic study further demonstrates that GQDs with different edge-site exhibit distinct binding affinity to FUS monomers and fibrils, which accounts for their distinct activities in modulating FUS LLPS and fibrillation. Our work reveals the potent capability of GQDs in modulating SG assembly, protein LLPS, and fibrillation and sheds light on rational design of GQDs as effective modulators of protein LLPS for therapeutics application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Zhang
- School of Sensing Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Jinge Gu
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yiling Zhang
- School of Sensing Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Huazhang Guo
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, BaoShan District, Shanghai 200444, P. R. China
| | - Shengnan Zhang
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Jie Song
- School of Sensing Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Cong Liu
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, BaoShan District, Shanghai 200444, P. R. China
| | - Dan Li
- Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- WLA Laboratories, World Laureates Association, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Bin Dai
- School of Sensing Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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Srivastava A, Badatya S, Chaturvedi AK, Kashyap DK, Srivastava AK, Gupta MK. Paddy-Straw-Derived Graphene Quantum Dots Reinforced Vertical Aligned Zinc Oxide Nanosheet-Based Flexible Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Self-Powered UV Sensors and Tribotronics Application. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2023; 15:24724-24735. [PMID: 37170777 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c02036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Herein, we report the paddy-straw-derived graphene quantum dots (GQDs)-reinforced vertical-aligned two-dimensional (2D) ZnO nanosheet-based flexible triboelectric nanogenerator (FTNG) for scavenging mechanical energy for the first time. The GQDs (diameter ∼5-7 nm) and ZnO nanosheets were grown using a hydrothermal method and seed-assisted chemical route, respectively. The X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy results confirmed the formation of a hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure and vertical-aligned morphology of 2D ZnO nanosheets. The GQD-reinforced ZnO-nanosheet-based FTNG device generated an output voltage of 40 V and current density of 2 μA/cm2, respectively, whereas pristine vertical-aligned ZnO-nanosheet-based device produced an output voltage of only 16 V and a current density of 0.36 μA/cm2, respectively. The performance of the GQD-ZnO nanosheet FTNG device was also measured under illumination of the UV light, and a drastic increase in the output voltage is observed as compared to a pristine ZnO-nanosheet-based device. The GQD-reinforced ZnO nanosheets exhibited very high dielectric constant of 40 at low frequency side. The current finding suggested a novel approach to efficiently harvest mechanical energy and a novel method to fabricate the self-powered UV sensors and tribotronics devices using agrowaste-derived GQDs and ZnO nanosheets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simadri Badatya
- CSIR-Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh-462026, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India
| | - Ashish Kumar Chaturvedi
- CSIR-Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh-462026, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India
| | - Deepak Kumar Kashyap
- CSIR-Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh-462026, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India
| | - Avanish Kumar Srivastava
- CSIR-Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh-462026, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India
| | - Manoj Kumar Gupta
- CSIR-Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh-462026, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India
- Department of Electronic Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma 00133, Italy
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36
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Raghavan A, Radhakrishnan M, Soren K, Wadnerkar P, Kumar A, Chakravarty S, Ghosh S. Biological Evaluation of Graphene Quantum Dots and Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Quantum Dots as Neurotrophic Agents. ACS Appl Bio Mater 2023. [PMID: 37167607 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Over time, developments in nano-biomedical research have led to the creation of a number of systems to cure serious illnesses. Tandem use of nano-theragnostics such as diagnostic and therapeutic approaches tailored to the individual disease treatment is crucial for further development in the field of biomedical advancements. Graphene has garnered attention in the recent times as a potential nanomaterial for tissue engineering and regenerative medicines owing to its biocompatibility among the several other unique properties it possesses. The zero-dimensional graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and their nitrogen-doped variant, nitrogen-doped GQDs (N-GQDs), have good biocompatibility, and optical and physicochemical properties. GQDs have been extensively researched owing to several factors such as their size, surface charge, and interactions with other molecules found in biological media. This work briefly elucidates the potential of electroactive GQDs as well as N-GQDs as neurotrophic agents. In vitro investigations employing the N2A cell line were used to evaluate the effectiveness of GQDs and N-GQDs as neurotrophic agents, wherein basic investigations such as SRB assay and neurite outgrowth assay were performed. The results inferred from immunohistochemistry followed by confocal imaging studies as well as quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) studies corroborated those obtained from neurite outgrowth assay. We have also conducted a preliminary investigation of the pattern of gene expression for neurotrophic and gliotrophic growth factors using ex vivo neuronal and mixed glial cultures taken from the brains of postnatal day 2 mice pups. Overall, the studies indicated that GQDs and N-GQDs hold prospect as a framework for further development of neuroactive compounds for relevant central nervous system (CNS) purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshaya Raghavan
- Polymers & Functional Materials Division, CSIR─Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad 500007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Mydhili Radhakrishnan
- Applied Biology Division, CSIR─Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad 500007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Kalyani Soren
- Applied Biology Division, CSIR─Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad 500007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | | | - Arvind Kumar
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
- CSIR─Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad 500007, India
| | - Sumana Chakravarty
- Applied Biology Division, CSIR─Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad 500007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Sutapa Ghosh
- Polymers & Functional Materials Division, CSIR─Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad 500007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
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37
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Geng D, Huang Y, Yuan S, Jiang Y, Ren H, Zhang S, Liu Z, Feng J, Wei T, Fan Z. Coordination Engineering of Defective Cobalt-Nitrogen-Carbon Electrocatalysts with Graphene Quantum Dots for Boosting Oxygen Reduction Reaction. Small 2023; 19:e2207227. [PMID: 36720006 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202207227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Developing efficient and robust metal-nitrogen-carbon electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is of great significance for the application of hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells and metal-air batteries. Herein, a coordination engineering strategy is developed to improve the ORR kinetics and stability of cobalt-nitrogen-carbon (Co-N-C) electrocatalysts by grafting the oxygen-rich graphene quantum dots (GQDs) onto the zeolite imidazole frameworks (ZIFs) precursors. The optimized oxygen-rich GQDs-functionalized Co-N-C (G-CoNOC) electrocatalyst demonstrates an increased mass activity, nearly two times higher than that of pristine defective Co-N-C electrocatalyst, and retains a stability of 90.0% after 200 h, even superior to the commercial Pt/C. Comprehensive investigations demonstrate that the GQDs coordination can not only decrease carbon defects of Co-N-C electrocatalysts, improving the electron transfer efficiency and resistance to the destructive free radicals from H2 O2 , but also optimize the electronic structure of atomic Co active site to achieve a desired adsorption energy of OOH- , leading to enhanced ORR kinetics and stability by promoting further H2 O2 reduction, as confirmed by theoretical calculations and experimental results. Such a coordination engineering strategy provides a new perspective for the development of highly active noble-metal-free electrocatalysts for ORR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Geng
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials and Surface Technology, Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150040, P. R. China
| | - Yichao Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Qingdao, 266580, P. R. China
| | - Saifei Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Qingdao, 266580, P. R. China
| | - Yangyang Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Qingdao, 266580, P. R. China
| | - Hao Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Qingdao, 266580, P. R. China
| | - Su Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Qingdao, 266580, P. R. China
| | - Zheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Qingdao, 266580, P. R. China
| | - Jing Feng
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials and Surface Technology, Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150040, P. R. China
| | - Tong Wei
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials and Surface Technology, Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150040, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Qingdao, 266580, P. R. China
| | - Zhuangjun Fan
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials and Surface Technology, Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150040, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Qingdao, 266580, P. R. China
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Zhang Y, Kim G, Zhu Y, Wang C, Zhu R, Lu X, Chang HC, Wang Y. Chiral Graphene Quantum Dots Enhanced Drug Loading into Small Extracellular Vesicles. ACS Nano 2023. [PMID: 37127891 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c00305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
As nanoscale extracellular vesicles secreted by cells, small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have enormous potential as safe and effective vehicles to deliver drugs into lesion locations. Despite promising advances with sEV-based drug delivery systems, there are still challenges to drug loading into sEVs, which hinder the clinical applications of sEVs. Herein, we report an exogenous drug-agnostic chiral graphene quantum dots (GQDs) sEV-loading platform, based on chirality matching with the sEV lipid bilayer. Both hydrophobic and hydrophilic chemical and biological drugs can be functionalized or adsorbed onto GQDs by π-π stacking and van der Waals interactions. By tuning the ligands and GQD size to optimize its chirality, we demonstrate drug loading efficiency of 66.3% and 64.1% for doxorubicin and siRNA, which is significantly higher than other reported sEV loading techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youwen Zhang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, United States
| | - Gaeun Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, United States
| | - Yini Zhu
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, United States
- Integrated Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, United States
| | - Ceming Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, United States
| | - Runyao Zhu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, United States
| | - Xin Lu
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, United States
| | - Hsueh-Chia Chang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, United States
| | - Yichun Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, United States
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Kurniawan D, Mathew J, Rahardja MR, Pham HP, Wong PC, Rao NV, Ostrikov KK, Chiang WH. Plasma-Enabled Graphene Quantum Dot Hydrogels as Smart Anticancer Drug Nanocarriers. Small 2023; 19:e2206813. [PMID: 36732883 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202206813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
One of the major challenges on the way to low-cost, simple, and effective cancer treatments is the lack of smart anticancer drug delivery materials with the requisite of site-specific and microenvironment-responsive properties. This work reports the development of plasma-engineered smart drug nanocarriers (SDNCs) containing chitosan and nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots (NGQDs) for drug delivery in a pH-responsive manner. Through a customized microplasma processing, a highly cross-linked SDNC with only 4.5% of NGQD ratio can exhibit enhanced toughness up to threefold higher than the control chitosan group, avoiding the commonly used high temperatures and toxic chemical cross-linking agents. The SDNCs demonstrate improved loading capability for doxorubicin (DOX) via π-π interactions and stable solid-state photoluminescence to monitor the DOX loading and release through the Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) mechanism. Moreover, the DOX loaded SDNC exhibits anticancer effects against cancer cells during cytotoxicity tests at minimum concentration. Cellular uptake studies confirm that the DOX loaded SDNC can be successfully internalized into the nucleus after 12 h incubation period. This work provides new insights into the development of smart, environmental-friendly, and biocompatible nanographene hydrogels for the next-generation biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darwin Kurniawan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, 10607, Taiwan
| | - Jacob Mathew
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, 10607, Taiwan
| | - Michael Ryan Rahardja
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, 10607, Taiwan
| | - Hoang-Phuc Pham
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, 10607, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Chun Wong
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Optomechatronics, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 110, Taiwan
| | - Neralla Vijayakameswara Rao
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, 10607, Taiwan
| | - Kostya Ken Ostrikov
- School of Chemistry and Physics and QUT Centre for Materials Science, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia
| | - Wei-Hung Chiang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, 10607, Taiwan
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Arimura S, Matsumoto I, Nishitani S, Sekiya R, Haino T. Induction of Chirality on Nanographenes. Chem Asian J 2023:e202300126. [PMID: 37032525 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202300126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
Chirality induction is an important topic in studies of nanographenes (NGs). We report chirality enhancements of NGs through postsynthetic chemical modifications of NGs with pyrene and m-terphenyl groups. These substituents were installed into N-(p-bromophenylethyl)imides on the edges of the NGs with Pd-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions. Circular dichroism (CD) spectra demonstrated that these bulky substituents improved the induced CD signal of the NGs compared to those previously reported and suggested that they induced the opposite chirality. Density functional theory calculations indicated possible edge structures for the NGs and indicated that π/π and CH/π interactions among the neighboring substituents influenced the orientations of the imides. These imides distorted the edges, and the distorted edges eventually generated the chiral environments of the NGs. The interactions among the substituents are, therefore, likely to allow detection of the CD signals in the visible region and induction of the opposite chirality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saki Arimura
- Hiroshima Daigaku - Higashihiroshima Campus: Hiroshima Daigaku, Chemistry, 1-3-1 kagamiyama, 739-8526, HIgashi-Hiroshima, JAPAN
| | - Ikuya Matsumoto
- Hiroshima Daigaku - Higashihiroshima Campus: Hiroshima Daigaku, Chemistry, 1-3-1 kagamiayama, 739-8526, Higashi-Hiroshima, JAPAN
| | - Shohei Nishitani
- Hiroshima Daigaku - Higashihiroshima Campus: Hiroshima Daigaku, Chemistry, 1-3-1 kagamiyama, 739-8526, higashi-hiroshima, JAPAN
| | - Ryo Sekiya
- Hiroshima Daigaku - Higashihiroshima Campus: Hiroshima Daigaku, Chemistry, 1-3-1 kagamiyama, 739-8526, Higashi-HIroshima, JAPAN
| | - Takeharu Haino
- Hiroshima Daigaku - Higashihiroshima Campus: Hiroshima Daigaku, Department of Chemistry, 1-3-1 Kagamiyama, 739-8526, Higashi-Hiroshima, JAPAN
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Jovanović S, Marković Z, Budimir M, Prekodravac J, Zmejkoski D, Kepić D, Bonasera A, Marković BT. Lights and Dots toward Therapy-Carbon-Based Quantum Dots as New Agents for Photodynamic Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041170. [PMID: 37111655 PMCID: PMC10145889 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The large number of deaths induced by carcinoma and infections indicates that the need for new, better, targeted therapy is higher than ever. Apart from classical treatments and medication, photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one of the possible approaches to cure these clinical conditions. This strategy offers several advantages, such as lower toxicity, selective treatment, faster recovery time, avoidance of systemic toxic effects, and others. Unfortunately, there is a small number of agents that are approved for usage in clinical PDT. Novel, efficient, biocompatible PDT agents are, thus, highly desired. One of the most promising candidates is represented by the broad family of carbon-based quantum dots, such as graphene quantum dots (GQDs), carbon quantum dots (CQDs), carbon nanodots (CNDs), and carbonized polymer dots (CPDs). In this review paper, these new smart nanomaterials are discussed as potential PDT agents, detailing their toxicity in the dark, and when they are exposed to light, as well as their effects on carcinoma and bacterial cells. The photoinduced effects of carbon-based quantum dots on bacteria and viruses are particularly interesting, since dots usually generate several highly toxic reactive oxygen species under blue light. These species are acting as bombs on pathogen cells, causing various devastating and toxic effects on those targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana Jovanović
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences-National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, P.O. Box 522, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zoran Marković
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences-National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, P.O. Box 522, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milica Budimir
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences-National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, P.O. Box 522, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jovana Prekodravac
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences-National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, P.O. Box 522, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Danica Zmejkoski
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences-National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, P.O. Box 522, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dejan Kepić
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences-National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, P.O. Box 522, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aurelio Bonasera
- Palermo Research Unit, Department of Physics and Chemistry-Emilio Segrè, University of Palermo and Consorzio Interuniversitario Nazionale per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Materiali (INSTM), 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Biljana Todorović Marković
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences-National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, P.O. Box 522, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
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Choi Y, Choi S, Lee I, Nguyen TVT, Bae S, Kim YH, Ryu J, Park S, Ryu J. Solar Biomass Reforming and Hydrogen Production with Earth-Abundant Si-Based Photocatalysts. Adv Mater 2023:e2301576. [PMID: 37020177 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202301576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Efficient electrochemical hydrogen production and biomass refinery are crucial for the decarbonization of various sectors. However, their energy-intensive nature and low efficiency have hindered their practical application. In this study, earth-abundant and non-toxic photocatalysts that can produce hydrogen and reform biomass efficiently, utilizing unlimited solar energy, are presented. The approach involves using low-bandgap Si flakes (SiF) for efficient light-harvesting, followed by modification with Ni-coordinated N-doped graphene quantum dots (Ni-NGQDs) to enable efficient and stable light-driven biomass reforming and hydrogen production. When using kraft lignin as a model biomass, SiF/Ni-NQGDs facilitate record-high hydrogen productivity at 14.2 mmol gcat -1 h-1 and vanillin yield of 147.1 mg glignin -1 under simulated sunlight without any buffering agent and sacrificial electron donors. SiF/Ni-NQGDs can be readily recycled without any noticeable performance degradation owing to the prevention of deactivation of Si via oxidation. This strategy provides valuable insights into the efficient utilization of solar energy and practical applications of electro-synthesis and biomass refinement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Choi
- School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungho Choi
- Division of Advanced Materials Science, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Inhui Lee
- School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Trang Vu Thien Nguyen
- School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghyun Bae
- School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Hwan Kim
- School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Carbon Neutrality, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaegeon Ryu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Soojin Park
- Division of Advanced Materials Science, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemistry, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungki Ryu
- School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Carbon Neutrality, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
- Emergent Hydrogen Technology R&D Center, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
- Center for Renewable Carbon, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
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43
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Fan M, Wang Z, Sun K, Wang A, Zhao Y, Yuan Q, Wang R, Raj J, Wu J, Jiang J, Wang L. NBOH Site-Activated Graphene Quantum Dots for Boosting Electrochemical Hydrogen Peroxide Production. Adv Mater 2023; 35:e2209086. [PMID: 36780921 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202209086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Carbon materials are considered promising 2/4 e- oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts for synthesizing H2 O2 /H2 O via regulating heteroatom dopants and functionalization. Here, various doped and functionalized graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are designed to reveal the crucial active sites of carbon materials for ORR to produce H2 O2 . Density functional theory (DFT) calculations predict that the edge structure involving edge N, B dopant pairs and further OH functionalization to the B (NBOH) is an active center for 2e- ORR. To verify the above predication, GQDs with an enriched density of NBOH (NBO-GQDs) are designed and synthesized by the hydrothermal reaction of NH2 edge-functionalized GQDs with H3 BO3 forming six-member heterocycle containing the NBOH structure. When dispersed on conductive carbon substrates, the NBO-GQDs show H2 O2 selectivity of over 90% at 0.7 -0.8 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode in the alkaline solution in a rotating ring-disk electrode setup. The selectivity retains 90% of the initial value after 12 h stability test. In a flow cell setup, the H2 O2 production rate is up to 709 mmol gcatalyst -1 h-1 , superior to most reported carbon- and metal-based electrocatalysts. This work provides molecular insight into the design and formulation of highly efficient carbon-based catalysts for sustainable H2 O2 production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Fan
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China
- Key Lab of Biomass Energy and Material, Jiangsu Province, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Zeming Wang
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Kang Sun
- Key Lab of Biomass Energy and Material, Jiangsu Province, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Ao Wang
- Key Lab of Biomass Energy and Material, Jiangsu Province, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Yuying Zhao
- Key Lab of Biomass Energy and Material, Jiangsu Province, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Qixin Yuan
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China
| | - Ruibin Wang
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China
| | - Jithu Raj
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Jingjie Wu
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA
| | - Jianchun Jiang
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China
- Key Lab of Biomass Energy and Material, Jiangsu Province, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
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Giordano MG, Seganti G, Bartoli M, Tagliaferro A. An Overview on Carbon Quantum Dots Optical and Chemical Features. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28062772. [PMID: 36985743 PMCID: PMC10051812 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28062772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Carbon quantum dots are the materials of a new era with astonishing properties such as high photoluminescence, chemical tuneability and high biocompatibility. Since their discovery, carbon quantum dots have been described as nanometric high-fluorescent carbon nanoparticles, but this definition has become weaker year after year. Nowadays, the classification and the physical explanation of carbon quantum dots optical properties and their chemical structure remain matter of debate. In this review, we provide a clear discussion on these points, providing a starting point for the rationalization of their classification and a comprehensive view on the optical and chemical features of carbon quantum dots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Giuseppe Giordano
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy
| | - Giulia Seganti
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy
| | - Mattia Bartoli
- Center for Sustainable Future Technologies (CSFT), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Via Livorno 60, 10144 Turin, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Nazionale per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Materiali (INSTM), Via G. Giusti 9, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Alberto Tagliaferro
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Nazionale per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Materiali (INSTM), Via G. Giusti 9, 50121 Florence, Italy
- Faculty of Science, Ontario Tech University, 2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, ON L1G 0C5 T, Canada
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45
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Lu Y, Jin B, Zheng R, Wu S, Zhao D, Qiu M. Production and Patterning of Fluorescent Quantum Dots by Cryogenic Electron-Beam Writing. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2023; 15:12154-12160. [PMID: 36848286 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c21052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have emerged as a promising type of functional material with distinguished properties. Although tremendous effort was devoted to the preparation of GQDs, their applications are still limited due to a lack of methods for processing GQDs from synthesis to patterning smoothly. Here, we demonstrate that aromatic molecules, e.g., anisole, can be directly converted into GQD-containing nanostructures by cryogenic electron-beam writing. Such an electron-beam irradiation product exhibits evenly red fluorescence emission under laser excitation at 473 nm, and its photoluminescence intensity can be easily tuned with the electron-beam exposure dose. Experimental characterizations on the chemical composition of the product reveal that anisole undergoes a carbonization and further graphitization process during e-beam irradiation. With conformal coating of anisole, our approach can create arbitrary fluorescent patterns on both planar and curved surfaces for concealing information or anticounterfeiting applications. This study provides a one-step method for production and patterning of GQDs, facilitating their applications in highly integrated and compact optoelectronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihan Lu
- College of Information Science and Electronic Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
- Key Laboratory of 3D Micro/Nano Fabrication and Characterization of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Advanced Technology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Binbin Jin
- Key Laboratory of 3D Micro/Nano Fabrication and Characterization of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Advanced Technology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Rui Zheng
- College of Information Science and Electronic Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
- Key Laboratory of 3D Micro/Nano Fabrication and Characterization of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Advanced Technology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Shan Wu
- Key Laboratory of 3D Micro/Nano Fabrication and Characterization of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Advanced Technology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Ding Zhao
- Key Laboratory of 3D Micro/Nano Fabrication and Characterization of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Advanced Technology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Min Qiu
- Key Laboratory of 3D Micro/Nano Fabrication and Characterization of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Advanced Technology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
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46
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Li Z, Qi G, Shi G, Zhang M, Hu H, Hao L. Engineered Graphene Quantum Dots as a Magnetic Resonance Signal Amplifier for Biomedical Imaging. Molecules 2023; 28. [PMID: 36903608 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28052363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The application of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) nano-contrast agents (nano-CAs) has increasingly attracted scholarly interest owing to their size, surface chemistry, and stability. Herein, a novel T1 nano-CA (Gd(DTPA)-GQDs) was successfully prepared through the functionalization of graphene quantum dots with poly(ethylene glycol) bis(amine) and their subsequent incorporation into Gd-DTPA. Remarkably, the resultant as-prepared nano-CA displayed an exceptionally high longitudinal proton relaxivity (r1) of 10.90 mM-1 s-1 (R2 = 0.998), which was significantly higher than that of commercial Gd-DTPA (4.18 mM-1 s-1, R2 = 0.996). The cytotoxicity studies indicated that the Gd(DTPA)-GQDs were not cytotoxic by themselves. The results of the hemolysis assay and the in vivo safety evaluation demonstrate the outstanding biocompatibility of Gd(DTPA)-GQDs. The in vivo MRI study provides evidence that Gd(DTPA)-GQDs exhibit exceptional performance as T1-CAs. This research constitutes a viable approach for the development of multiple potential nano-CAs with high-performance MR imaging capabilities.
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Lee B, Stokes GA, Valimukhametova A, Nguyen S, Gonzalez-Rodriguez R, Bhaloo A, Coffer J, Naumov AV. Automated Approach to In Vitro Image-Guided Photothermal Therapy with Top-Down and Bottom-Up-Synthesized Graphene Quantum Dots. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2023; 13:805. [PMID: 36903683 PMCID: PMC10005083 DOI: 10.3390/nano13050805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Graphene-based materials have been the subject of interest for photothermal therapy due to their high light-to-heat conversion efficiency. Based on recent studies, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are expected to possess advantageous photothermal properties and facilitate fluorescence image-tracking in the visible and near-infrared (NIR), while surpassing other graphene-based materials in their biocompatibility. Several GQD structures including reduced graphene quantum dots (RGQDs) derived from reduced graphene oxide via top-down oxidation and hyaluronic acid graphene quantum dots (HGQDs) hydrothermally bottom-up synthesized from molecular hyaluronic acid were employed to test these capabilities in the present work. These GQDs possess substantial NIR absorption and fluorescence throughout the visible and NIR beneficial for in vivo imaging while being biocompatible at up to 1.7 mg/mL concentrations. In aqueous suspensions, RGQDs and HGQDs irradiated with a low power (0.9 W/cm2) 808 nm NIR laser facilitate a temperature increase up to 47.0 °C, which is sufficient for cancer tumor ablation. In vitro photothermal experiments sampling multiple conditions directly in the 96-well plate were performed using an automated simultaneous irradiation/measurement system developed on the basis of a 3D printer. In this study, HGQDs and RGQDs facilitated the heating of HeLa cancer cells up to 54.5 °C, leading to the drastic inhibition of cell viability from over 80% down to 22.9%. GQD's fluorescence in the visible and NIR traces their successful internalization into HeLa cells maximized at 20 h suggesting both extracellular and intracellular photothermal treatment capabilities. The combination of the photothermal and imaging modalities tested in vitro makes the GQDs developed in this work prospective agents for cancer theragnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bong Lee
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76109, USA
| | - Gretel A. Stokes
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76109, USA
| | - Alina Valimukhametova
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76109, USA
| | - Steven Nguyen
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76109, USA
| | | | - Adam Bhaloo
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76109, USA
| | - Jeffery Coffer
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76109, USA
| | - Anton V. Naumov
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76109, USA
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Ku TH, Shen WT, Hsieh CT, Chen GS, Shia WC. Specific Forms of Graphene Quantum Dots Induce Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest in Breast Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24. [PMID: 36835458 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Graphene quantum dots (GQDs), nanomaterials derived from graphene and carbon dots, are highly stable, soluble, and have exceptional optical properties. Further, they have low toxicity and are excellent vehicles for carrying drugs or fluorescein dyes. Specific forms of GQDs can induce apoptosis and could be used to treat cancers. In this study, three forms of GQDs (GQD (nitrogen:carbon = 1:3), ortho-GQD, and meta-GQD) were screened and tested for their potential to inhibit breast cancer cell (MCF-7, BT-474, MDA-MB-231, and T-47D) growth. All three GQDs decreased cell viability after 72 h of treatment and specifically affected breast cancer cell proliferation. An assay for the expression of apoptotic proteins revealed that p21 and p27 were up-regulated (1.41-fold and 4.75-fold) after treatment. In particular, ortho-GQD-treated cells showed G2/M phase arrest. The GQDs specifically induced apoptosis in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cell lines. These results indicate that these GQDs induce apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest in specific breast cancer subtypes and could potentially be used for treating breast cancers.
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Yang S, Li Y, Chen L, Wang H, Shang L, He P, Dong H, Wang G, Ding G. Fabrication of Carbon-Based Quantum Dots via a "Bottom-Up" Approach: Topology, Chirality, and Free Radical Processes in "Building Blocks". Small 2023:e2205957. [PMID: 36610043 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202205957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of carbon-based quantum dots (CQDs) has allowed opportunities for fluorescence bioimaging, tumor diagnosis and treatment, and photo-/electro-catalysis. Nevertheless, in the existing reviews related to the "bottom-up" approaches, attention is mainly paid to the applications of CQDs but not the formation mechanism of CQDs, which mainly derived from the high complexities during the synthesis of CQDs. Among the various synthetic methods, using small molecules as "building blocks", the development of a "bottom-up" approach has promoted the structural design, modulation of the photoluminescence properties, and control of the interfacial properties of CQDs. On the other hand, many works have demonstrated the "building blocks"-dependent properties of CQDs. In this review, from one of the most important variables, the relationships among intrinsic properties of "building blocks" and photoluminescence properties of CQDs are summarized. The topology, chirality, and free radical process are selected as descriptors for the intrinsic properties of "building blocks". This review focuses on the induction and summary of recent research results from the "bottom-up" process. Moreover, several empirical rules pertaining thereto are also proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwei Yang
- Joint Laboratory of Graphene Materials and Applications, State Key Laboratory of Functional Materials for Informatics, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Yongqiang Li
- Joint Laboratory of Graphene Materials and Applications, State Key Laboratory of Functional Materials for Informatics, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Liangfeng Chen
- Joint Laboratory of Graphene Materials and Applications, State Key Laboratory of Functional Materials for Informatics, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Hang Wang
- Joint Laboratory of Graphene Materials and Applications, State Key Laboratory of Functional Materials for Informatics, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Liuyang Shang
- Joint Laboratory of Graphene Materials and Applications, State Key Laboratory of Functional Materials for Informatics, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Peng He
- Joint Laboratory of Graphene Materials and Applications, State Key Laboratory of Functional Materials for Informatics, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Hui Dong
- Joint Laboratory of Graphene Materials and Applications, State Key Laboratory of Functional Materials for Informatics, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Microelectronic Science and Engineering, School of Physical Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Guqiao Ding
- Joint Laboratory of Graphene Materials and Applications, State Key Laboratory of Functional Materials for Informatics, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-Electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
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Saud A, Saleem H, Munira N, Shahab AA, Rahman Siddiqui H, Zaidi SJ. Sustainable Preparation of Graphene Quantum Dots for Metal Ion Sensing Application. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2022; 13:148. [PMID: 36616057 PMCID: PMC9823882 DOI: 10.3390/nano13010148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Over the past several years, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have been extensively studied in water treatment and sensing applications because of their exceptional structure-related properties, intrinsic inert carbon property, eco-friendly nature, etc. This work reported on the preparation of GQDs from the ethanolic extracts of eucalyptus tree leaves by a hydrothermal treatment technique. Different heat treatment times and temperatures were used during the hydrothermal treatment technique. The optical, morphological, and compositional analyses of the green-synthesized GQDs were carried out. It can be noted that the product yield of GQDs showed the maximum yield at a reaction temperature of 300 °C. Further, it was noted that at a treatment period of 480 min, the greatest product yield of about 44.34% was attained. The quantum yields of prepared GQDs obtained after 480 min of treatment at 300 °C (named as GQD/300) were noted to be 0.069. Moreover, the D/G ratio of GQD/300 was noted to be 0.532 and this suggested that the GQD/300 developed has a nano-crystalline graphite structure. The TEM images demonstrated the development of GQD/300 with sizes between 2.0 to 5.0 nm. Furthermore, it was noted that the GQD/300 can detect Fe3+ in a very selective manner, and hence the developed GQD/300 was successfully used for the metal ion sensing application.
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