A simple one-step method for preparation of fluorescent carbon nanospheres and the potential application in cell organelles imaging

Highly fluorescent carbon nanospheres with a quantum yield of 17.6% have been prepared by a one-step method with hydrothermal treatment of spider silk. Due to the high photostability, low toxicity and well blood compatibility, these carbon nanospheres could be used as an excellent probes for cancer cell imaging. (c) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.