Graphene quantum dots: Synthesis, optical properties and navigational applications against cancer. (June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kansara, Vrushti; Shukla, Rahul; Flora, Swaran Jeet Singh; Bahadur, Pratap; Tiwari, Sanjay
• Is Part Of: Materials today communications. Volume 31(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-06
• Subjects: Biosensing -- Graphene -- Quantum dots -- Cancer -- Non-specific interaction -- Tunable fluorescence; Materials science -- Periodicals; 620.11
• DOI: 10.1016/j.mtcomm.2022.103359
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-4928

Abstract

Abstract: Graphene quantum dots (GQDs), zero-dimensional carbon-based nanomaterials, have attracted immense interest for theranostic applications. These applications of GQDs stem from chemical inertness, ultra-small size, and high aqueous dispersibility which probably enable their effective clearance without inflicting toxicity to the host. Relative to heavy metal-based quantum dots and organic fluorophores, GQDs display tunable bandgap and optoelectronic properties. Considerable efforts have been made to modulate their photoluminescence through doping of heteroatoms and controlling the size and edge profile. Subsequent changes in π-conjugation improve the luminescence stability, signal-to-noise ratio, and imaging depth unachievable with organic dyes. This review covers the synthesis and structural aspects of GQDs in context to their application in cancer diagnosis. After discussing the effect of chemistry (surface functionalization and doping) on optical properties, we present an inclusive view on the sensing of cancer-related biomarkers with GQDs. Graphical Abstract: ga1 Highlights: High aqueous dispersibility, ultra-small size and biocompatibility make graphene quantum dots (GQDs) of potential biomedical interest. Optoelectronic properties of GQDs can be modulated through heteroatom doping and edge group functionalization. GQDs offer high signal-to-noise ratio and imaging depth unachievable with organic dyes. Updates on synthesis strategies and properties of GQDs are presented. Structural aspects of GQDs in context to their application in cancer diagnosis and biosensing are reviewed.