Targeted quantum dots fluorescence probes functionalized with aptamer and peptide for transferrin receptor on tumor cells

Quantum dots (QDs) fluorescent probes based on oligonucleotide aptamers and peptides with specific molecular recognition have attracted much attention. In this paper, CdSe/ZnS QDs probes for targeted delivery to mouse and human cells using aptamer GS24 and peptide T7 specific to mouse/human transferrin receptors were developed. Capillary electrophoresis analyses indicated that the optimal molar ratios of QDs to aptamer or peptide were 1:5. Fluorescence and confocal microscope imaging revealed QD-GS24 and QD-T7 probes were able to specifically recognize B16 cells and HeLa cells respectively. Quantitative flow cytometry analysis indicated the transportation of QD-GS24 or QD-T7 into cells could be promoted by corresponding free transferrin. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the uptake of probes in cells and the effective intracellular delivery. MTT assay suggested the cytotoxicity of probes was related to the surface ligand, and aptamer GS24 (or peptide T7) could reduce the cytotoxicity of probes to a certain degree. The study has great significance for preparing QDs fluorescent probes using non-antibody target molecules.