Electrochemically Engineered GQDs for Selective Tumor Targeting and Oxidative Nanotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast...

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are promising nanomaterials for biomedical applications.
• Conventional GQD synthesis methods can be slow, hazardous, and lack therapeutic relevance.
• Developing sustainable and efficient GQD production is crucial for clinical translation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a rapid, sustainable, and green electrochemical method for GQD synthesis.
• To characterize the physicochemical properties of the synthesized GQDs.
• To evaluate the in vitro and in vivo efficacy and biocompatibility of GQDs for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) theranostics.

Main Methods:

• Electrochemical exfoliation of defect-rich graphene sheets using vitamin C and sodium hydroxide.
• Characterization of GQD size, fluorescence, dispersibility, and surface functionalities.
• In vitro cytotoxicity assays on TNBC cells and normal fibroblasts.
• In vivo fluorescence imaging and biodistribution studies in tumor-bearing mice.
• Assessment of systemic biocompatibility through blood biochemistry and histopathology.

Main Results:

• Synthesized GQDs (3-10 nm) with excitation-dependent green fluorescence and high aqueous dispersibility.
• Demonstrated selective in vitro cytotoxicity against TNBC cells via reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation.
• Confirmed preferential tumor accumulation and renal clearance in vivo.
• Showcased excellent systemic biocompatibility and therapeutic relevance.

Conclusions:

• The developed electrochemical method provides a fast, safe, and sustainable route for GQD production.
• The synthesized GQDs exhibit potent theranostic capabilities for TNBC.
• This green nanoplatform holds significant potential for image-guided, ROS-amplified nanotheranostics in clinical settings.