The Use of Rare Earth Glass Microspheres and Graphene Quantum Dots Glass Microspheres for Biological Applications: Cancer Insight

Abstract

This study explores the use of glass microspheres doped with rare earth elements, specifically samarium (Sm) and neodymium (Nd), and graphene quantum dots (GQDs) in biological applications, particularly cancer therapy. The microspheres were synthesized using a novel method that utilized recycled glass and were characterized using various techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). In vitro assays demonstrated that these doped microspheres significantly reduced cell viability in breast (MCF-7) and prostate (DU-145) cancer cell lines. The GQD microspheres showed a marked reduction in cell proliferation, attributed to mechanisms involving apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Samarium and neodymium microspheres also decreased cell survival, with Nd microspheres showing the highest efficacy. The study highlights the potential of rare earth elements and graphene quantum dots in developing advanced nanotherapeutic agents for cancer treatment, emphasizing their role in disrupting cellular functions and promoting cytotoxic effects in tumor cells.

Keywords: oncology, therapy, prostate cancer, breast cancer, nanomedicine