Effect of Quantum Dots, Novel Biological Imaging Agents, in Liver Cells in Vitro

The use of Quantum dots (QDs) coated with polymer and functionalized with carboxylic acid groups in medical applications are explored. Their water solubility and exceptional stability in aqueous environments make them potentially useful for such applications as imaging and ligand attachments. However, there are concerns regarding the toxic effects of QDs and the minimal dose that can be used without producing any detrimental effects to organisms. In this study, QDs coated with the amphiphilic polymer coating tri-n-octylphosphine oxide and poly (maleic anhydride-alt-1-tetradecene (TOPO-PMAT)) which is functionalized with carboxylic acid groups were used to investigate their toxic effect in mouse liver cells. The cells were treated with 2 nM, 20 nM and 40 nM of QDs for a 24 -hour period and assays were performed to determine the effect on cell viability, ATP production, mitochondrial membrane potential and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The results showed no significant effect on cell viability, ATP production and ROS production. However, the mitochondrial membrane potential of cells was significantly decreased when treated with 20 nM and 40 nM QDs. The results suggest that TOPO-PMAT QDs could be mildly toxic and precaution should be taken if used in higher concentration than 20 nM.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science (MS)

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Chemistry

Year dc:date.available

2016

Author dc:creator

• Maharjan, Utshaha

Contributors dc:contributor

• Carin Thomas
• Levente Fabry-Asztalos
• Todd Kroll

• Mitochondrial membranes
• Quantum dots
• Toxicology
• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

https://digitalcommons.cwu.edu/etd/382

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:digitalcommons.cwu.edu:etd-1378