Preparation and cell imaging of nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dot conjugated indomethacin

Abstract

The nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dot conjugated indomethacin (N-GQD-IDM) was synthesized by an amide reaction. The results of FTIR indicated that the synthesis of N-GQD-IDM was successful. It was then co-cultured with MCF-7 cells, and obvious fluorescence was observed under a laser confocal scanning microscope. With the increase of incubation time, the material accumulated significantly in the cells and the fluorescence intensity of the cells was slightly improved. This compound could be suggested as a promising fluorescent probe in cancer cell labeling.

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“…The results of the fluorescence images showed high recognition of GQDs-PEG. Nonetheless, Feng et al synthesized nitrogen-doped GQDs reacted with indomethacin [ 254 ]. This fluorescent probe was then incubated with breast cancer cells (MCF-7) for imaging through a Laser Scanning Confocal Microscope.…”

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“…Moreover, starting materials, synthesis methods, and experimental parameters have a direct effect on the physicochemical attributes of GQDs. − Recently, it has been reported that heteroatom-doped GQDs afforded high quantum yield (QY), surface/volume ratio, and resistance to photobleaching. Furthermore, the suitability of heteroatom-doped GQDs (sulfur-doped, boron-doped, chlorine-doped, and nitrogen-doped) for use in cellular applications can be assessed according to their QY and water dispersity. − Investigations have identified that the catalytic activity of GQDs is due to selective deactivation of surface carboxylic, carbonyl, or hydroxyl groups. Sun and co-investigators found that the carbonyl group can act as a catalytic site, while OC-O- and hydroxyl groups act as a substrate-binding spot and an inhibitor, respectively.…”

“…The use of such a novel methodology will benefit cancer theranostics . Feng et al investigated conjugates of indomethacin (IDM) and nitrogen-doped GQDs for cancer cell recognition and cellular imaging . Here, EDC-NHS chemistry was used for the conjugation of IDM with N-GQDs.…”

“…Here, EDC-NHS chemistry was used for the conjugation of IDM with N-GQDs. The attachment of IDM to N-GQDs markedly enhanced the fluorescent imaging ability with time . Nitrogen doping resulted in bright fluorescence and high QY with the GQDs.…”

“…73 Feng et al investigated conjugates of indomethacin (IDM) and nitrogen-doped GQDs for cancer cell recognition and cellular imaging. 34 Here, EDC-NHS chemistry was used for the conjugation of IDM with N-GQDs. The attachment of IDM to N-GQDs markedly enhanced the fluorescent imaging ability with time.…”