Functionalized graphene quantum dots as drug carrier

Important results from the project

The project aims at exploring the potential use of graphene quantum dots with high purity and exact size control to act as potential mRNA delivery system. We have successfully prepared size controlled graphene quantum dots with functional group on the surface. As the drug delivery system, they can bind to the mRNA and deliver into the cell.

Expected long term effects

At the present time, we can control the size of graphene quantum dots in a narrow range with expected functional group on the surface. mRNA is attached to the functionalized graphene quantum dots and are successfully delivered into the cell. The whole system is quite stable compared with reference samples. Improvement in transfection efficiency and reduction in toxicity will be necessary in the future work.

Approach and implementation

The pre-study was a collaborative work between Astrazeneca, SHT and Chalmers. We have developed functionalized graphene quantum dots for mRNA drug delivery system. At the present time, there are still issues to be solved, such as transfection efficiency and toxicity. In the future work, we need to optimize the functional group to make it more biocompatible. We need a profound understanding of the specific reaction and releasing mechanism between graphene and mRNA, and how the system performs within the cell environment. A systematic study of these aspects is expected to take 2-3 years.