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

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.