Empowering rapid diagnosis and treatment of glioblastoma with biofunctionalized carbon quantum dots: a review

Glioblastoma (GBM), classified as a grade IV glioma, poses a significant challenge in the medical field due to the lack of efficient early detection techniques and targeted treatment options. This review addresses this critical unmet need by evaluating the transformative potential of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) and graphene quantum dots (GQDs), along with their biofunctionalized derivatives. These advanced nanomaterials offer remarkable opportunities to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of GBM at the cellular level. The excellent biocompatibility, stability, and adjustable surface properties of biofunctionalized GQDs (bGQDs) and biofunctionalized CQDs (bCQDs) create a strong foundation for the targeted management of GBM. Careful surface modifications enable selective toxicity toward GBM cells while preserving the health of normal cells. This approach enhances penetration through the blood–brain barrier and targets tumor cell nuclei precisely. Furthermore, the photophysical properties of bCQDs and bGQDs make them suitable for innovative anticancer treatments, including photodynamic and photothermal therapies. By incorporating anticancer agents and receptor-mediated targeting systems within bCQDs and bGQDs, therapeutic effectiveness is significantly improved through enhanced drug delivery and increased tumor specificity. Developing sensitive and selective biosensors for GBM using bCQDs and bGQDs as fluorescent and electrochemical sensing platforms enables real-time monitoring of disease progression. This review emphasizes the promising future of fluorescent CQDs and GQDs as powerful alternatives to traditional GBM management strategies, paving the way for more effective and personalized approaches in nanomedicine. Clinical trial number Since this study is a review, it is not eligible for submission to the clinical trial registry.