Abstract
This dissertation explores the synthesis and modification of carbon dots (CDs), their comprehensive characterization using spectroscopic techniques, and their applications in targeted drug delivery and antiviral therapies. Additionally, the work investigates the effects of concentration on ¹O₂ generation by xanthene-based photosensitizers (PS). First, the synthesis and modification of CDs were optimized to elucidate the mechanisms of action of a targeted drug delivery system, comprising CDs, doxorubicin, and holo-Transferrin, designed for the treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) both in vitro and in vivo. The drug loading of anthracycline antibiotics on CDs was subsequently investigated using a novel circular dichroism spectroscopy technique to control dosage and improve the conjugated nanosystem. Second, a novel thiol-based CD was developed and fully characterized for the inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 and the treatment of COVID-19-associated inflammation. Pseudo-SARS-CoV-2 viruses were used in vitro to assess the antiviral efficacy of thiolated CDs, followed by their application in macrophages to induce an anti-inflammatory response. Third, three xanthene-based PS were studied to explore the correlation between concentration and ¹O₂ generation using an optical dosimeter capable of detecting the 1277 nm emission. Finally, future studies are proposed to further explore new avenues of the presented in this work.