CC BY
1Fluorescent sensing of metal ions in biological environment with
carbon dots
L.I. Fatkhutdinova'*, E.N. Gerasimova1, I.I. Vazhenin1, P. Ginzburg2,3, M.V. Zyuzin1
1- School of Physics, ITMO University, Lomonosova str. 9, 191002 St. Petersburg, Russia 2- Triangle Regional Research and Development Center, Kfar Qara' 3007500, Israel 3- Light-Matter Interaction Centre, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
Microelements play critical roles in numerous physiological functions by circulating in the bloodstream [1]. Ferrous ions (Fe2+), integral to hemoglobin, facilitate oxygen transportation within the body [2]. Additionally, they are vital for hematopoiesis, molecule conveyance, and nutrient dispersion. A deficiency in these ions can result in anemia, while an excess leads to hemochromatosis and potential organ impairments [3,4]. Elevated levels may trigger oxidative damage and ischemic harm. Cobalt (Co2+) is another essential element found in the water-soluble Cobalamin (Vitamin B-12) complex, crucial for metabolic processes [4]. It aids in lowering homocysteine levels, protecting cardiovascular health, and supporting blood cell generation, along with maintaining healthy nervous system function. Vitamin B-12 deficiency can cause anemia, while excess amounts may lead to asthma, rhinitis, and cardiomyopathy [5]. Detection of metal ions like Fe2+ and Co2+ is essential for health monitoring and sustaining bodily functions.
Spectroscopic methods are gaining attention for swiftly detecting metal ions, offering a viable option compared to other complex techniques [6]. Optically-responsive nanomaterials like quantum dots, plasmonic nanoparticles, and carbon dots show promise in effectively sensing biological molecules. Carbon dots, with their low photobleaching and high water solubility, are particularly notable for detecting various metal ions such as Pd2+, Hg2+, and Fe2+ [7-9]. Monitoring their fluorescence intensity and lifetime aids in understanding their response to metal ions, crucial for ion sensing applications.
Thus, the optical sensing capabilities of synthesized meta-phenylenediamine CDs were examined by combining them with various metal ions to enhance specificity [10]. The CDs, derived from phenylenediamine, were chosen for their remarkable sensitivity and attraction to metal ions at incredibly low concentrations, as demonstrated in earlier studies. We show that the CDs exhibit a strong sensitivity towards Fe2+, Fe3+, and Co2+. Additionally, the fundamental processes behind this selective sensing are studied. Further tests are carried out in blood serum to validate the concept. Leveraging these unique properties, these CDs could potentially pave the way for a detection system for Fe2+, Fe3+, and Co2+, thereby making significant contributions to advancements in medical diagnostics and environmental monitoring.
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