Multi-target neuroprotection of carbon dots derived from Crinis Carbonisatus in multiple acute epilepsy model

This study successfully synthesized spherical CrCi-CDs rich in surface functional groups (hydroxyl, amino, and carboxyl groups), which exhibited excellent dispersibility in aqueous solutions. <i>In vivo</i> evaluations using PTZ, PILO, and PNC models demonstrated that CrCi-CDs significantly reduced the severity of epileptic seizures and attenuated seizure-induced spatial learning and memory deficits. Brain histopathology revealed that CrCi-CDs treatment effectively mitigated hippocampal neuronal damage. Mechanistically, CrCi-CDs exerted neuroprotective effects through multiple pathways: restoring homeostasis by correcting pathological imbalances of neurotransmitters (Glu/GABA), alleviating oxidative stress (SOD/MDA), and suppressing proinflammatory cytokine release (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18). Further investigations suggest these effects may be mediated by regulating glutamate transporters, inhibiting the NF-κB inflammatory cascade, and modulating neuronal apoptosis pathways. This study confirms that bio-derived CrCi-CDs exhibit potent antiepileptic and neuroprotective properties. By simultaneously targeting neurotransmission, inflammation, and oxidative stress, CrCi-CDs emerge as a highly promising therapeutic candidate with a favorable safety profile, providing a scientific rationale for the development of biomass-derived nanomedicines in epilepsy management.