Functional Organic Nanocrystals for Ultralong Phosphorescence Lifetime Bioimaging Applications

Project Information

FUNCrystals

Grant agreement ID: 101025385

DOI

10.3030/101025385

Project closed

EC signature date 19 April 2021

Start date 1 September 2021

End date 31 August 2023

Funded under

• EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Total cost

€ 224 933,76

EU contribution

€ 224 933,76

Coordinated by

THE CHANCELLOR MASTERS AND SCHOLARS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE
United Kingdom

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - FUNCrystals (Functional Organic Nanocrystals for Ultralong Phosphorescence Lifetime Bioimaging Applications)

Reporting period: 2021-09-01 to 2023-08-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The FUNCrystals project addresses a multifaceted problem encompassing materials science, biomedicine, and advanced imaging techniques. Its core objective is to advance our understanding of room-temperature organic phosphor nanocrystals and their potential applications in biomedicne. Specifically, the project focuses on bulk 4-Diphenylamino-4'-nitrobiphenyl orgnaic crystal to Nanocrystals (4-DNB NCs), delving into their large scale synthesis, characterization, biocompatibility, and advanced imaging applications.

The key aspects of the project can be summarized as follows:

Materials Science Advancements: The project seeks to unlock the full potential of 4-DNB NCs by investigating their properties, particularly their optical and structural characteristics. By analyzing their behavior at the nanoscale, we aim to contribute to the development of novel materials with unique features and applications.

Biocompatibility and Biomedical Relevance: Understanding the biocompatibility of 4-DNB NCs is crucial for their utilization in various biomedical applications. This research is significant for society as it can lead to the development of safe and effective nanomaterials for drug delivery, imaging, and other healthcare applications.

Advanced Imaging Techniques: The project introduces cutting-edge imaging techniques, such as two-photon phosphorescence lifetime microscopy and two-photon excited fluorescence, to capture high-resolution, high-contrast images. This innovation has far-reaching implications for diagnostics, disease research, and the development of new imaging tools.

The overall objectives are to advance the knowledge and applications of nanocrystals, contribute to the development of safer and more efficient materials for biomedicine, and revolutionize imaging techniques for enhanced biological and medical research. By the project's conclusion, we aim to have made substantial progress in each of these areas, ultimately benefitting society through scientific advancements and potential applications in healthcare and materials science.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

The FUNcrystals project's work from its inception to the end of the reporting period has been conducted in multiple phases, encompassing materials synthesis, characterization, biocompatibility assessment, and advanced imaging studies. Here are the main results achieved during each phase:

Materials Synthesis and Characterization: The project successfully synthesized 4DNB Nanocrystals (4-DNB NCs) through laser ablation in a aques solvent medium. Extensive characterization confirmed the formation of nanocrystals with distinct properties compared to the bulk material. The research led to a profound understanding of the structural and optical characteristics of 4-DNB NCs.

Biocompatibility Assessment: The biocompatibility experiments revealed valuable insights into the interaction of 4-DNB NCs with biological systems. These studies included cytotoxicity assessments using the MTT assay and the measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Initial results indicated the potential safety of 4-DNB NCs in biological contexts, with a need for further investigations.

Advanced Imaging Studies: The project introduced innovative imaging techniques, such as two-photon phosphorescence lifetime microscopy and two-photon excited fluorescence. These techniques demonstrated the capability to capture high-resolution, high-contrast bioimages. Preliminary results exhibited the feasibility of these techniques for advanced imaging applications.

In terms of exploitation and dissemination, the project's results are currently being prepared for publication. Collaborative efforts with external institutions, These publications explore topics such as fluorescence in biological matter, nanomaterial toxicity in wastewater treatment, and the enhancement of perovskite solar cells. These publications are vital for sharing knowledge and contributing to the scientific community.

While the initial stages of the project faced some delays due to external factors, the final results indicate promising directions for further research. The project is on track to deliver valuable insights into nanocrystal materials, biocompatibility, and advanced imaging techniques, with the potential for broader applications in healthcare, materials science, and diagnostics.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

Progress Beyond the State of the Art:

The project has made significant progress beyond the state of the art in several key areas:

Nanocrystal Synthesis: The successful synthesis of 4-Diphenylamino-4'-nitrobiphenyl Nanocrystals (4-DNB NCs) through laser ablation in a solvent medium represents a novel and efficient approach for producing nanocrystals with tailored properties. This method offers advantages over traditional synthesis techniques.

Biocompatibility Assessment: The in-depth biocompatibility studies, including the MTT assay and ROS measurements, provide a comprehensive understanding of how 4-DNB NCs interact with living cells. This level of scrutiny and customization in biocompatibility assessments is relatively unexplored and offers valuable insights into the potential use of nanocrystals in biomedical applications.

Advanced Imaging Techniques: The development of two-photon phosphorescence lifetime microscopy and two-photon excited fluorescence techniques for high-resolution bioimaging is pioneering. These methods enable enhanced spatial resolution and higher-contrast imaging compared to traditional imaging techniques.

Expected Results Until the End of the Project:

As the project moves forward, the following expected results are anticipated:

Optimized Nanocrystals: The project aims to further optimize the synthesis of 4-DNB NCs, tailoring their properties for specific applications. This includes refining their size, shape, and surface properties.

Biocompatibility Validation: Further biocompatibility experiments and detailed investigations into the safety profile of 4-DNB NCs in biological systems will be conducted. These studies will provide critical data for future biomedical applications.

Advanced Imaging Applications: The advanced imaging techniques developed in the project will be fine-tuned and expanded. They will be applied to various biological and materials science scenarios, providing researchers with enhanced tools for visualization and analysis.

Potential Impacts:

Biomedical Applications: The successful development of biocompatible nanocrystals and advanced imaging techniques can have a transformative impact on healthcare. These innovations may lead to improved diagnostic tools, targeted drug delivery systems, and enhanced understanding of cellular processes, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Materials Science Advancements: Tailored nanocrystals with unique properties can be used in a wide range of materials science applications, such as catalysis, sensors, and optoelectronic devices, with the potential to revolutionize these industries.

Innovation Capacity: The project enhances the innovation capacity of the research field, fostering creativity and knowledge exchange among researchers and potentially leading to groundbreaking discoveries beyond the project's scope.

Overall, the project's contributions are poised to impact various sectors, from healthcare and materials science to environmental sustainability and knowledge dissemination. These impacts have the potential to drive positive changes in society and the wider scientific community.

Organic phosphorscence Nanocrystals for phosphorscence bioimaging