Preparation of Technetium Labeled-Graphene Quantum Dots and Investigation of Their Bio Distribution

The novel radiotracer has been studied with the title of Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and decorated by the usage of selenium (Se), while surface modification has been carried out in the following through the utilization of Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and labeled with (99m)Technetium (Tc-99m). Moreover, Tc-99m has been eluted from a Mo-99/Tc-99m producer, and Graphene quantum dots have been synthesized with high photoluminescence (PL) intensity throughout the range of 600 to 900 nm. We have also evaluated the labeling stability percentages of GQDs and Tc-99m in double-distilled water and human serum through the application of the Instant Thin Layer Chromatography (ITLC) method in different time intervals; it should be noted that methanol and acetone have been applied as the mobile phase. Radioactivity of Tc-99m-GQDs have been injected into nine designated rats through their tail, while the bio distribution of radioactivity was being surveyed through a Gamma counter and had the percent of Injected Dose per gram (%ID/g) calculated for each organ. In addition, the process of capturing static posterior and anterior images by the application of a gamma camera has been done in vivo. In accordance with the observations, there has been a higher GQDs (Se-PEG) distribution throughout the kidneys when compared to the other organs. There is the possibility of exerting these quantum dots for the labeling of kidneys since they can almost completely escape the body within 24 h.

Automated summary

The novel radiotracer featuring Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) decorated with selenium (Se) and modified with Polyethylene glycol (PEG), successfully labeled with (99m)Technetium (Tc-99m). In vivo experiments demonstrated the high stability and radioactivity of Tc-99m-GQDs, with prominent distribution in the kidneys, suggesting potential for kidney labeling and rapid clearance from the body within 24 hours.