2P-139 : Cytocompatible and Photostable Carbon Nanodots for Cell Imaging

Recently, zero-dimensional carbon dots (C-dots) with unique fluorescent properties extensively tested for bioimaging applications. However, the typical sizes of C-dots reported in the literature are within 1-6 nm, which makes them difficult to separate, purify and collect. Therefore, the current synthesis methodologies of fluorescent carbon nanomaterials require further improvement. In this study, fluorescent carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) with a quantum yield of 6.08% have been synthesized using a hydrothermal method within a short period of time (t = 30 min). Fluorescence spectroscopy (FS) revealed that CNPs demonstrate excellent photostability that is suitable for prolonged bioimaging applications. Cytotoxicity study with L-929 fibroblastic cells showed that CNPs are nontoxic even at relatively high concentrations up to 250 μg/ml. Strong green fluorescence signal observed from L-929 cells suggested that CNPs can be utilized for in-vitro tissues/cells bioimaging applications.