Bioengineered graphene–iron oxide nanocomposite and derived quantum dots as pro-angiogenic agents: potential therapeutic applications

The present study focuses on the conversion of a green-synthesized graphene–iron oxide nanocomposite into fluorescent quantum dots with enhanced optical properties. This was achieved by using Spirulina platensis crude extract to synthesize graphene-based quantum dots to enhance their biomedical performance. The synthesized quantum dots were biofunctionalized with naturally derived extracellular matrix proteins, namely collagen and fibrin. The fabricated quantum dots were characterized to prove their functional and structural attributes using XRD, FTIR, UV–Vis, PL, and DLS analysis. The elliptical structure with protein projections in FE-SEM and HR-TEM analysis, with a high ratio of carbon, oxygen, iron, and nitrogen from EDX results, proved the loading of graphene-based quantum dots with proteins on the surface. These formulated materials were tested for biocompatibility and a range of preliminary in vitro screening activities. The screening included free radical scavenging, protein-denaturation inhibition, and yeast-based glucose-uptake activity. To check cytocompatibility and pro-angiogenic potential, the fabricated quantum dot was further studied using cell proliferation and scratch-wound assays in EA.hy926 cells. These results offer evidence that supports the biological performance of the FQD platform. The findings highlight its effects on cells and its ability to promote angiogenesis.