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Development of Fluorescent Carbon Dots for Selective and Sensitive Detection of Copper Ions and Cellular Imaging

Maximiliano Hart*

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Fluorescent Carbon Dots (CDs) have emerged as a versatile tool in nanotechnology due to their superior optical properties, biocompatibility and ease of synthesis. They are increasingly used for sensing applications, including the detection of metal ions such as copper, which is crucial for various biological and environmental processes. The ability to selectively and sensitively detect copper ions (Cu² ) is important for both practical and research applications. This study aims to develop advanced fluorescent carbon dots specifically designed for the selective and sensitive detection of copper ions. Additionally, the application of these CDs in cellular imaging is explored to demonstrate their utility in biological contexts. The CDs were synthesized via a hydrothermal method, optimized to enhance their fluorescence and selectivity towards copper ions. The materials were characterized using techniques such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). The performance of the CDs in detecting copper ions was evaluated under various conditions and their potential for cellular imaging was assessed using fluorescence microscopy on live cells. The synthesized CDs exhibited high fluorescence quantum yields, stability and selectivity towards copper ions. The detection of copper ions was achieved with high sensitivity, reaching low detection limits. Cellular imaging demonstrated that the CDs could effectively label copper ions within live cells, providing clear visualization of copper distribution. The developed fluorescent carbon dots represent a significant advancement in sensing and imaging technologies. Their high selectivity and sensitivity for copper ions, coupled with their biocompatibility, make them a promising tool for environmental monitoring and biomedical research.