Enhanced antibacterial activity of carbon dots functionalized with ampicillin combined with visible light triggered photodynamic effects

In this study, we demonstrate that amine-terminated carbon dots (CDs-NH2) functionalized with ampicillin (AMP) offer a new perspective for antibacterial treatment. The amine-functionalized carbon dots were used as a carrier for immobilization and delivery of ampicillin (CDs-AMP) and as a visible light-triggered antibacterial material. Additionally, AMP immobilization on the CDs-NH2 surface improves its stability in solution as compared to free AMP. The AMP conjugated CDs platform combines the antibacterial function of AMP and conserves the intrinsic theranostic properties of CDs-NH2. Therefore, the AMP immobilized onto CDs-NH2 surface together with the generation of moderate quantities of reactive oxygen species under visible light illumination are very effective to inactivate the growth of Escherichia coli. Graphical abstract
Source: Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces - Category: Biochemistry Source Type: research