In this work, we demonstrate the application of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) for bioimaging and suggest their potential use for ocular drug delivery. We used cells with CD44 receptors that are specific for hyaluronic acid (HA). CQDs were synthesized by microwave-assisted pyrolysis of citric acid and aliphatic diamines. Time of pyrolysis, the molar ratio of acid to amine, and the carbon chain length of aliphatic diamines were optimized to yield strong fluorescence. HA-CQD conjugate was synthesized by a carbodiimide coupling of the amines on CQDs and the carboxylic acids on HAs. The CQDs and their conjugates fluoresced depending upon excitation wavelength. Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells were exposed to CQDs and HA-CQDs. 3D confocal microscopy images showed enhanced internalization of HA-CQDs which was facilitated through CD44 receptors. Minimal internalization occurred when the receptors were blocked with excess HA. This observation portends the use of HA as a carrier for targeted ocular drug delivery into CD44 rich corneal and retinal cells.

Hyaluronic acid conjugated carbon quantum dots for bioimaging and targeted drug delivery in ophthalmology

253rd National Meeting (2017)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.