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Updated: Feb 11, 2026
17:14
Compact Quantum Dots for Single-molecule Imaging
Published on: October 9, 2012
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A peptide-functionalized quantum Dots/MOF nanosheets fluorescence biosensor for glutathione sensing and cellular
Tongfang Chen1, Jingjie Liang2, Weiqing Liu3
1School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; Guizhou Institute for Food and Drug Control, Guiyang, 550081, China.
Analytica Chimica Acta
|February 9, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed a novel "switch-on" nanoprobe for detecting glutathione (GSH). This tool accurately images and quantifies GSH, aiding in distinguishing cancer cells from normal cells for improved tumor diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Glutathione (GSH) is a key cellular antioxidant crucial for redox homeostasis and detoxification.
- Elevated GSH levels are linked to neurodegenerative diseases, liver injury, and cancer progression, making it a vital biomarker.
- Tumor tissues show significantly higher GSH concentrations, promoting proliferation, invasion, and chemoresistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel "switch-on" near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence nanoprobe for sensitive and selective detection and imaging of GSH.
- To utilize the nanoprobe for monitoring intracellular GSH levels and differentiating cancer cells from normal cells.
Main Methods:
- Conjugation of histidine-rich CH peptides to Ag2S quantum dots (QDs).
- Self-assembly of Ag2S QDs onto 2D Cu-TCPP metal-organic framework (MOF) nanosheets.
- Utilizing a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) mechanism where Cu-TCPP quenches Ag2S-CH fluorescence, which is restored upon GSH reduction of Cu2+.
Main Results:
- The nanoprobe achieved a low detection limit (5.33 μM) and a wide linear range (0.625–10 mM) for GSH quantification.
- Demonstrated excellent selectivity, reproducibility, and biocompatibility.
- Successfully monitored intracellular GSH levels and distinguished between cancer and normal cells based on differential GSH expression.
Conclusions:
- The "switch-on" nanoprobe offers a reliable strategy for tumor diagnosis and investigating GSH-related biological processes.
- The probe exhibits excellent biocompatibility and is suitable for cellular imaging and semi-quantitative analysis of GSH.
- This technology enables discrimination between normal and cancer cells via differential GSH levels.
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