A mitochondria-targeted fluorescent probe based on TPP-conjugated carbon dots for both one- and two-photon fluorescence cell imaging

A simple approach of a mitochondria-targeted fluorescent probe has been demonstrated for the preparation of highly water-soluble and fluorescent TPP-conjugated carbon dots (TPP-CDs) derived from low-cost citric acid and urea. We found that the TPP-CDs are suitable for both one- and two-photon mitochondria-selective imaging in living cells.