Carbon nanodots in cancer theranostics Bridging nanostructure 2026 Next Mat

Carbon nanodots (CNDs) are ultra-small (2 – 10 nm) zero-dimensional carbon nanoparticles that exhibit remarkable nanoscale-dependent properties. Their size-dependent photoluminescence facilitates sensitive detection and real-time bioimaging, and their abundant surface functional groups allow for modification by a variety of chemical techniques for targeted drug delivery and controlled therapeutic release. Collectively, these inherent structural and optical characteristics demonstrate exciting potential for CNDs to function as dual-use nanoprobes for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. CNDs can be prepared using a variety of top-down approaches (e.g., chemical oxidation and laser ablation) and bottom-up approaches (e.g., hydrothermal and microwave-assisted) for synthesis. Bottom-up approaches are preferred for nanodots to afford greater control over the size of the nanoparticles and features of the surface/chemical state of the nanoparticles. Each synthesis route requires careful characterization using a variety of methods (e.g., photoluminescence spectroscopy, FTIR, UV – visible spectroscopy, and TEM) to confirm nanoscale morphology, surface chemistry, and optical behavior needed for anticipated biomedical uses. CNDs have a range of potential biomedical applications, including bioimaging, biosensing, drug delivery, and antioxidant therapy. In cancer theranostics, surface-engineered CNDs have shown the ability to improve tumor-specific accumulation, provide greater therapeutic selectivity, and enhance photodynamic therapy using reactive oxygen species.