TAGRA 2025

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are carbon-based new class of fluorescence materials with a particle size of less than 10 nm. CQDs represent strong fluorescence properties, chemical inertness, high solubility in water, and biocompatibility. With these unique properties, they have been employed in various applications including the bioimaging, biosensing, diagnosis and treatment. A myriad of materials, from pure organic compounds to waste products, have been utilized as initiators in the synthesis of CQDs. Despite the recent progress, novel initiators and procedures are highly demanded fort he fabrication of CQDs. Daucus carota ssp. sativus var. atrorubens is the botanical name for the black carrot, commonly known as “purple carrot” or “black/purple cultivar of the edible carrot.” This variety is especially rich in anthocyanins, giving it the deep purple/black color. It is nutritionally superior to typical carrots due to high anthocyanin content and strong antioxidant properties. The black carrot provides unique characteristics in cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, neuroprotective, and anticancer applications. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the extract obtained from the black carrot plant, a natural and sustainable resource, as a carbon source in CQD synthesis. The aim is to thoroughly investigate the optical properties and interaction with biological systems of the CQD obtained through the green synthesis process using the hydrothermal method.The structural and optical properties of the CQD synthesized within the scope of the study were determined using characterization techniques such as UV-vis spectroscopy, TEM, fluorescence spectroscopy, and zeta potential measurements. Subsequently, the biocompatibility, cytotoxic effect, and intracellular localization potential of these particles were evaluated through cell culture studies. CQDs demonstrated high fluorescence activity with high biocompatibility and low cytotoxicity. In conclusion, black carrot-based CQDs via an environmentally friendly green synthesis provided high potential in the biological applications.