Exploration of Graphitic-C₃N₄ Quantum Dots for Microwave-Induced Photodynamic Therapy

Abstract

Here, we report our new observations on graphitic-phase carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) quantum dots (QDs) as agents for microwave induced photodynamic therapy (MIPDT). For the first time, we observed that singlet oxygen is produced in g-C₃N₄ QDs by microwave irradiation, which can be used for tumor destruction. The results of live/dead staining and flow cytometry show that g-C₃N₄ QDs based MIPDT can effectively kill cancer cells and promote tumor cell death. In addition, the cell viability and hemolysis tests in vitro indicate that g-C₃N₄ QDs have very low cell toxicity and possess excellent biocompatibility in the physiological environments. All these indicate that g-C₃N₄ QDs are promising for MIPDT, a new potential modality for cancer treatment.