Carbon Dots: A Novel Nanodrug Delivery Target, its Structure, Synthesis and Applications

Recent research has introduced numerous nano-drug delivery technologies into the biomedical field, with carbon dots (CDs) standing out as a significant breakthrough in nanomaterials. Known as “emerging light” due to their unique structural features and adaptability, CDs are a particular type of carbon-based nanoparticle. These characteristics make CDs highly versatile and attractive for a wide range of applications, including biosensing, bioimaging, and drug delivery. The remarkable properties of CDs have made them central to nanotechnology and medical research. Their effective electron transferability and photo-blinking effects enhance their efficiency in imaging and sensing applications, ensuring safety for use in biological systems. CDs also exhibit a high photoluminescent quantum yield, making them highly efficient light emitters. Their exceptional resistance to photobleaching and photo-decomposition extends their usefulness in longterm applications. Additionally, CDs possess strong electrocatalytic activity, excellent water solubility, and long-term chemical stability, making them both effective and durable. Their low toxicity and cost-effectiveness further enhance their suitability for widespread use. CDs' high surface area-to-volume ratio increases their utility in various applications. Recent advancements have highlighted the potential of CDs as nanocarriers for biological applications, such as gene, vaccine, and antiviral drug delivery. The easy modification of their physico-chemical properties to suit specific applications underscores their versatility. This review article provides a comprehensive summary of the latest developments in carbon dots, covering their characteristics, synthesis techniques, properties, classification, and applications.