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Carbon dots (CQDs), zero-dimensional carbon nanostructures, have attracted considerable interest among researchers due to their versatile applications. CQDs exhibit exceptional photoluminescent properties and high quantum yield, making them ideal candidates for bioimaging, drug delivery and environmental sensing. Their biocompatibility and tunable surface chemistry enable targeted therapeutic delivery and real-time imaging with minimal toxicity. Additionally, CQDs are emerging as promising materials in optoelectronics, offering sustainable alternatives in light-emitting diodes and solar cells. This review underscores the unparalleled adaptability of green CQDs in bridging the gap between laboratory research and practical applications, paving the way for innovative solutions in healthcare and environmental monitoring. Through comprehensive analysis, it advances the understanding of CQDs, positioning them at the forefront of next-generation nanomaterials with significant translational impact. Article highlights Quantum dots Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor nanocrystals known for their unique optical and electronic properties, making them valuable for bioimaging, sensors, light-emitting devices and photovoltaics. Carbon Quantum Dots (CQDs) are notable for their low toxicity, chemical inertness and biocompatibility, suitable for various applications. Green synthesis of CQDs Green synthesis methods use natural, renewable resources and environmentally benign processes, aligning with green chemistry principles. These methods minimize hazardous chemicals and leverage abundant natural resources, reducing environmental impact and improving biocompatibility. Applications of green CQDs Bioimaging Used as fluorescent probes for high-resolution imaging with minimal toxicity. Sensing Develop sensitive and selective sensors for detecting metal ions, small molecules and biomolecules. Optoelectronics Enhance the performance of LEDs and solar cells. Environmental applications Effective in water purification, pollutant detection and environmental monitoring. Challenges & future research Further research is needed to optimize the synthesis and applications of green CQDs. Understanding the relationship between synthesis parameters and CQD properties, as well as ensuring long-term stability and safety, are crucial for their practical applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, leading to various motor and non‐motor symptoms. Several cellular and molecular mechanisms such as alpha‐synuclein (α‐syn) accumulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are involved in the pathogenesis of this disease. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in post‐transcriptional gene regulation. They are typically about 21–25 nucleotides in length and are involved in the regulation of gene expression by binding to the messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules. miRNAs like miR‐221 play important roles in various biological processes, including development, cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. miR‐221 promotes neuronal survival against oxidative stress and neurite outgrowth and neuronal differentiation. Additionally, the role of miR‐221 in PD has been investigated in several studies. According to the results of these studies, (1) miR‐221 protects PC12 cells against oxidative stress induced by 6‐hydroxydopamine; (2) miR‐221 prevents Bax/caspase‐3 signalling activation by stopping Bim; (3) miR‐221 has moderate predictive power for PD; (4) miR‐221 directly targets PTEN, and PTEN over‐expression eliminates the protective action of miR‐221 on p‐AKT expression in PC12 cells; and (5) miRNA‐221 controls cell viability and apoptosis by manipulating the Akt signalling pathway in PD. This review study suggested that miR‐221 has the potential to be used as a clinical biomarker for PD diagnosis and stage assignment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inflammation plays a major part in brain ischemia. Propolis is a polyphenol-rich hive product with a set of pharmaceutical properties. Objectives: This research aims to investigate the impact of water extracts of brown propolis (WEPs) on stroke outcomes and inflammatory responses in a rat model of permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Materials & Methods: This experimental study was conducted in Rafsanjan, Iran, in 2017. WEPs were experimentally prepared from two regions in Iran. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and Folin-Ciocalteu assays were used to determine chemical portrayal and the total polyphenol content, respectively. A total of 66 male adult mice were divided randomly into the surgical sham, control (vehicle-treated), and four WEPs-treated animal groups. WEPs-treated groups received doses of 100 and 200 (mg/kg, IP) four times, and their behavioral tests, brain edema, infarct volume, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) level were evaluated. Results: The samples were not significantly different in terms of the concentration of the total polyphenol content. Compared to the control, WEPs led to a substantial decrease in the TNF-a level (P<0.05) as well as a subsequent reduction in the brain edema and infarct volume (P<0.001) in all treatment groups. Furthermore, there was a significant improvement in neurological deficits and sensory-motor impairments level (P<0.05). Conclusion: According to the study findings, WEPs reduce brain ischemia damage, perhaps by exerting a neuroprotective effect on stroke-induced neuroinflammatory responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]