Synthesis and Biological Assessment of Imidazole-Enhanced Dna Dots for Breast Cancer Cell Imaging; تقو ي تشده با ايميدازول Dnaسنتز و ارزياب ي بيولوژي كي نقاطبراي تصويربرداري سلو لهاي سرطا ني پستا ن Publisher



M Imani MAHSA ; H Lotfi HAJIE ; M Hajiabdolvahab MOHADESEH ; N Mohajeri NASRIN
Source: Iranian Journal of Breast Diseases Published:2025

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer (BC) remains one of the most prevalent malignancies among women worldwide. Early detection of BC is crucial as it significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and reduces mortality rates. Fluorescence imaging holds significant promise for the early detection of BC. Methods: DNA-Imidazole dots (DI-dot) were synthesized through the facile hydrothermal method using DNA and imidazole as a heterocyclic function group. The physicochemical, structural, and fluorescent characteristics of DI-dot were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX). Spectroscopic features were investigated by the ultraviolet absorption and fluorescence spectra. Analysis of FTIR spectroscopy, size, and zeta potential verified the synthesis and modification of DI-dot. The UV-visibility and fluorescence intensity of the DI-dot showed great optical properties under a radiation of 360 nm. Results: The DI-dot was synthesized with high yields (∼34%). Average diameter of monodispersed DI-dots was within the range of 6-10 nm. The EDAX results determined the preservation of DNA moieties within the secondary structure of the DI-dot modified by imidazole. The FTIR analysis further identified the NH and C-N bonds, corresponding to the enhanced fluorescence efficiency of the DI-dot. The DI-dot showed two distinctively sharp fluorescence peaks at 400–500 nm, with maximum absorption at 260 nm. The cytotoxicity assay ensured the high viability (∼88%) of the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line. Conclusion: The DI-dot represented superior fluorescent properties and significant stability under strange conditions, including long-term UV exposure, different pH solutions, and high ionic concentrations. Ultimately, DI-dots can be used for fluorescence imaging of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells due to their enhanced fluorescence properties and high biocompatibility. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.