Biocompatibility and Bioimaging Potential of Fruit-Based Carbon Dots

• DOI: 10.3390/nano9020199
• Publication Date: 2019-02-05T16:31:07Z
• Authors: Cindy Dias; Nagamalai Vasimalai; Marisa P. Sárria; Ivone Pinheiro; Vânia Vilas-Boas; João Peixoto; Begoña Espiña
• Keywords: Biocompatibility; Carbon fibers

Photo-luminescent carbon dots (CD) have become promising nanomaterials and their synthesis from natural products has attracted attention by the possibility of making most affordable, sustainable and, readily-available sources. Here, we report on synthesis, characterization bioimaging potential CDs produced diverse extensively fruits: kiwi, avocado pear. The in vitro cytotoxicity anticancer those were assessed comparing human epithelial cells normal adult kidney colorectal adenocarcinoma cells. In vivo toxicity was evaluated using zebrafish embryos given peculiar embryogenesis, with transparent developing ex-utero, allowing a real-time analysis. experiments revealed that synthesized CD presented only at concentrations ≥1.5 mg mL−1. Kiwi exhibited highest to both lines embryos, presenting lower LD50 values. Interestingly, despite inducing than other CDs, black pepper resulted higher vivo. bio-distribution upon uptake investigated fluorescence microscopy. We observed accumulation eye yolk sac, being ones more retained, indicating usefulness bio-imaging applications. This study shows action fruit-based However compounds present these mechanism as agent need be further explored.