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Probing the Cytotoxicity Of Semiconductor Quantum Dots
Austin M Derfus1, Warren C W Chan1, Sangeeta N Bhatia1
1Dept of Bioengineering, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA.
Nano Letters
|September 12, 2017
Summary
Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) show promise for biological labeling but can be toxic. This study found CdSe QDs are toxic to primary hepatocytes, with toxicity linked to cadmium ion release, but appropriate coatings can ensure safety.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) offer superior fluorescence properties compared to organic dyes for biological applications.
- Despite potential, concerns regarding the cytotoxicity of QDs, particularly cadmium selenide (CdSe) variants, persist.
- Previous studies have yielded conflicting results on CdSe QD cytocompatibility, especially with immortalized cell lines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cytotoxicity of CdSe-core quantum dots using primary hepatocytes as a relevant in vitro liver model.
- To identify factors influencing CdSe QD cytotoxicity, including synthesis parameters, UV exposure, and surface coatings.
- To determine the correlation between CdSe QD cytotoxicity and the release of cadmium ions.
Main Methods:
- Primary hepatocytes were utilized to assess the acute toxicity of CdSe-core quantum dots under various conditions.
- Synthesis parameters, ultraviolet light exposure, and different surface coatings were systematically varied.
- Cellular viability assays and analysis of free cadmium ion concentration were performed.
Main Results:
- CdSe-core quantum dots exhibited acute toxicity in primary hepatocytes under specific experimental conditions.
- Cytotoxicity was significantly modulated by synthesis methods, UV irradiation, and the type of surface coating applied.
- A strong correlation was observed between QD cytotoxicity and the liberation of free Cd2+ ions, indicating lattice degradation.
Conclusions:
- CdSe-core quantum dots can be acutely toxic to primary hepatocytes, contrary to findings with some cell lines.
- The observed toxicity is linked to the release of cadmium ions from the QD lattice.
- Appropriate surface functionalization can mitigate CdSe QD toxicity, enabling their safe use for in vitro cell tracking and potentially in vivo applications.
