Multifunctional graphene quantum dots for combined photothermal and photodynamic therapy coupled with cancer cell tracking applications

摘要: Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have gained enormous attention due to their unique optical properties and emerging employment in biology. Herein, we report the synthesis of highly crystalline GQDs having superior physicochemical near infrared (NIR)-responsive using simple waste, withered leaves Ficus racemosa, an Indian fig tree, as a carbon source. A considerably large production yield was obtained (ca. 18%) with competitive 14.16%. The exhibited excellent dispersibility both organic well aqueous solvents were photostable. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy showed presence ultra-small honey-combed self-assembled GQDs. Cell cycle analysis flow cytometry biocompatibility studies that cytocompatible used situ labeling probes for normal cancer cells. Furthermore, upon irradiation 808 nm laser (0.5 W cm−2), concentration-dependent photothermal response reactive oxygen species observed. Confocal scanning did not lose fluorescence despite continuous (30 min) on MDA-MB-231 breast Thus, cell death could be traced GQD-labeled cells post-therapy photostability GQDs, unlike photo-bleachable dyes. low-cost, scalable, green-synthesis efficient will pave way new therapeutics imaging biomedical research.