Functionalized quantum dots to quantify NADPH and their use for NADP+-dependent biocatalyzed transformations

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biochemistry
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Quantum dots are semiconductor nanoparticles with unique optical properties.
• Their fluorescence makes them suitable for use as optical labels in biological applications.
• Analyzing biocatalytic processes often requires sensitive detection methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel fluorescent probe for analyzing biocatalyzed transformations.
• To demonstrate the utility of quantum dots conjugated with Nile Blue (NB) as versatile probes.
• To enable the quantitative detection of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate) (NAD(P)H).

Main Methods:

• Preparation of semiconductor quantum dots conjugated with Nile Blue.
• Utilizing the fluorescent properties of the NB-functionalized quantum dots.
• Applying the probes to analyze biocatalyzed transformations and detect NAD(P)H.

Main Results:

• NB-functionalized quantum dots demonstrated versatility as probes for biocatalysis.
• The probes enabled quantitative detection of both NADPH and NADH.
• This method provides a new pathway for optical detection of NAD(P)H.

Conclusions:

• Quantum dot-Nile Blue conjugates serve as effective probes for biocatalytic analysis.
• The developed probes facilitate the quantitative optical detection of NAD(P)H.
• This approach offers a new tool for studying NAD(P)(+)-dependent biotransformations.