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Exploring Carbon Dot Nanoparticles for Imaging and Cellular Interaction in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Mehrnoosh Bahadorani1, Kerui Wu2, Jianjun Wei2
1Department of Nanoengineering, Joint School of Nanoscience & Nanoengineering, North Carolina Agriculture and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC, USA.
International Journal of Nanomedicine
|December 15, 2025
Summary
Carbon nanodots (CNDs) show promise for cellular imaging but trigger apoptosis in triple-negative breast cancer cells. Standard viability tests are insufficient to confirm biocompatibility of these nanomaterials.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Carbon dot nanoparticles (CNDs) are recognized for their fluorescence and synthesis ease, making them suitable for cellular imaging.
- However, a comprehensive understanding of their biological impact is lacking, necessitating further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize E-CNDs (ethylenediamine and citric acid-based carbon nanodots) via microwave-assisted methods.
- To investigate the intracellular distribution and biological effects of E-CNDs on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells.
Main Methods:
- E-CNDs were synthesized and incubated with TNBC cells.
- Intracellular localization was assessed using imaging.
- Cytotoxicity was evaluated using CCK-8 assays.
- Apoptotic activity was measured via Annexin V/PI staining and molecular markers (G6PDH, procaspase 3).
Main Results:
- E-CNDs exhibited perinuclear localization and mitochondrial presence, suitable for intracellular imaging.
- Standard CCK-8 assays indicated no significant cytotoxicity.
- Molecular analysis revealed dose-dependent downregulation of G6PDH and upregulation of procaspase 3.
- Annexin V/PI staining confirmed increased apoptotic activity.
Conclusions:
- E-CNDs function as effective imaging agents with no apparent cytotoxicity via standard assays.
- However, E-CNDs induce molecular and apoptotic responses, indicating potential biological effects.
- Cell viability assays alone are insufficient for assessing nanomaterial biocompatibility; detailed molecular and functional evaluations are crucial for safe biomedical applications.
