Carbon dots derived from Aicao (Artemisia argyi) and Honey induce cancer cell death by targeting MET kinase

Abstract

Background: Carbon dots are increasingly recognized as promising nanomaterials for bioimaging and anticancer applications. Nevertheless, the biological role of multi-herb–derived carbon dots remains poorly characterized.

Materials and methods: Carbon dots were synthesized from Aicao (Artemisia argyi) and Honey (AC/H). Their physical and biochemical properties were analyzed using zeta potential, scanning electron microscopy, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, and enzyme activity assays.

Results: AC/H carbon dots displayed an average size of ~100 nm. When combined with the MET kinase inhibitor crizotinib or the PI3K/AKT inhibitor LY294002, the particles reached 150–200 nm, suggesting stable complex formation. AC/H treatment led to significant cancer cell death, which was reversed by NAC, indicating a ROS-dependent mechanism. Confocal microscopy demonstrated AC/H fluorescence under UV light and Golgi localization, pointing to potential interference with protein phosphorylation pathways. Furthermore, AC/H showed strong anti- peroxidase and phosphatase activity. Importantly, co-treatment with AC/H and either crizotinib or LY294002 resulted in greater cytotoxicity compared with single treatments.

Conclusion: The study suggests that AC/H carbon dots act as ROS-dependent, Golgi-targeted nanostructures with enzyme-like activity. Their combination with kinase inhibitors enhances anticancer efficacy, highlighting AC/H as a potential candidate for fluorescence-guided drug delivery systems in cancer therapy.

Acknowledgement: This work was supported by Xi’an TCM Hospital of Encephalopathy and School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University.

Key words: Carbon dots, Aicao, Honey, MET kinase, ROS, cancer

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