Synthesis, characterization and evaluation of aqueous Zn-based quantum dots for bioapplications.

Semiconducting nanoparticles called quantum dots (Qds) present unique optoelectronic properties based on their extremely small size, composition, and spherical shape, which make them suitable for use as diagnostic and theranostic agents in biological samples. The main scope of the fabrication of Qds is real-time diagnosis, therapy, drug delivery, and in vitro and in vivo tracking, presenting strong resistance to photobleaching. In this work, quantum dots such as ZnO, ZnSe, ZnS, and doped ZnS : Mn and ZnS : Cd were developed via a simple sol-gel synthesis in an aqueous solution. Morphological, structural, and optical characterizations were investigated. Moreover, an in vitro biological evaluation of Qds was performed. The results indicate that the photoluminescence is enhanced after doping ZnS Qds with Mn2+ and Cd2+. Qds have been synthesized for use as fluorescent agents for real-time monitoring in bio-applications.

Embryonic stem cells are devoid of macropinocytosis, a trafficking pathway for activin A in differentiated cells.

Ligand-receptor complexes formed at the plasma membrane are internalised via various endocytic pathways that influence the ultimate signalling output by regulating the selection of interaction partners by the complex along the trafficking route. We report that, in differentiated cells, activin A-receptor complexes are internalised via clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) and macropinocytosis (MP), whereas in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) internalisation occurs via CME. We further show that hESCs are devoid of MP, which becomes functional upon differentiation towards endothelial cells through mesoderm mediators. Our results reveal, for the first time, that MP is an internalisation route for activin A in differentiated cells, and that MP is not active in hESCs and is induced as cells differentiate.