Facile one-precursor and one-pot synthesis of Girard's reagent T-based carbon dots for bacteria-resistant and anti-biofilm applications.

Based on the promising development of carbon dots in antibacterial applications, Girard's reagent T-based carbon dots () with a mean size of 2.41 nm and excellent antibacterial performance were synthesized through a one-step method. The minimum inhibitory concentration ofwas 200 μg mlfor bothand. The bacterial growth curves showed that the inhibitory effect ofon bacterial multiplication was strongly concentration-dependent. The bactericidal effect ofwas further demonstrated by the large differences in bacterial fluorescence staining plots. Zeta potential measurements and scanning electron microscope images indicated thatformed complexes with bacteria, which affected the normal physiological activities of bacteria, causing their rupture and death. In addition,efficiently inhibited biofilm formation and removed mature biofilms. Furthermore,also exhibited a remarkable inhibitory activity on MRSA. Cytotoxicity experiments showed thathad good cytocompatibility and even promoted cell proliferation at low concentrations. Therefore, theobtained from a one-precursor and one-pot synthesis show good prospects for antibacterial applications.