Fruit-based carbon dots as fluorescent probes: in vitro and in vivo toxicity evaluation

The recent discovery of carbon dots has opened a new family of exciting nanoscale materials for diagnostic approaches and drug delivery. Carbon dots (c-dots) emerge as a suitable replacement to metal-based quantum dots due to their higher biocompatibility, aqueous solubility, small size and high photoluminescence[1][2]. In addition, the possibility of using fabrication methods based on natural sources, such as fruits, turns this nanodots much more attractive, since they can accommodate the fruits therapeutic benefits[2]. In order to ensure safety in their application and in the environment, information on their toxicological profile both in vitro and in vivo is critical. We used in vitro cell viability tests as proficient tools to evaluate toxicity and to assess optimal concentrations to be used in bioimaging, and zebrafish Danio rerio (Hamilton, 1822) as in vivo model for toxicological investigation given its swift and peculiar development with transparent embryos developing ex-utero, allowing for a real-time analysis of the induced effects.