The toxicity and clearance of copper indium sulfide quantum dots in vivo (Conference Presentation)

For the first time, we assess the biodistribution and toxicity of unshelled CIS and partially zinc-alloyed CISZ QDs in a murine model at 1-day, 7-day, and 1-month timepoints. We show that bare CIS QDs breakdown quickly, with >75% of the initial dose being cleared by 1-month. Surprisingly, we also demonstrate a significant toxic response to these QDs as measured by organ weight, blood chemistry, and histology. Specifically, low doses of CIS particles (15mg/kg) induce severe hepatotoxicity and splenotoxicity. Similarly, CISZ demonstrated significant, but lower, toxicity compared to bare CIS. Overall, our data suggests that reconsideration of CIS as a translatable QD system is required: degradation-based toxicity is an important aspect of biocompatibility that needs to be assessed in “non-toxic” QDs, if QDs are to ever be clinically successful. Finally, we suggest a non-toxic biodegradable alternative.