Photothermal/GSH-dual-responsive organic quantum dots enabling traceable DNA delivery

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Quantum dots offer fluorescence and photostability for cancer applications.
• Challenges in cancer gene therapy include low efficiency, targeting, and responsiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a dual-responsive gene delivery system using PEI-based carbon quantum dots (CPNCs).
• To enhance gene delivery efficiency, targeting, and therapeutic outcomes in cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• CPNCs were synthesized by crosslinking polyethylenimine quantum dots (PQDs) with carbon quantum dots (CQDs) via disulfide bonds.
• The system was designed for glutathione (GSH) and near-infrared (NIR) photothermal responsiveness.
• Fluorescence, cellular uptake, and transfection efficiencies were evaluated in 293T and HeLa cells.

Main Results:

• CPNCs exhibited notable fluorescence at 380 nm.
• High cellular uptake (74.63% in 293T, 60.58% in HeLa) and transfection efficiencies (64.74% in 293T, 41.86% in HeLa) were achieved under NIR treatment.
• The vector demonstrated efficient gene delivery, fluorescence tracing, and photothermal conversion.

Conclusions:

• The developed CPNCs represent a promising vector for efficient gene delivery and fluorescence tracing.
• This dual-responsive system offers a synergistic approach for enhanced cancer therapy through combined gene delivery and photothermal effects.