Quantum dots and photodynamic therapy in COVID ‐19 treatment

Abstract

Viral diseases are regarded as a global burden. The eradication of viral diseases is always a challenging task in medical research due to the high infectivity and mutation capability of the virus. The ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic is still not under control even after several months of the first reported case and global spread. In the pursuit of a promising strategy, carbon dots could be considered as potential nanostructure against this viral pandemic. Carbon dots are photoluminescent carbon nanoparticles, smaller than 10 nm in dimension with a very attractive photostable and biocompatible properties which can be surfaced modified or functionalized. These photoluminescent tiny particles have captured much attention owing to their functionalization property and biocompatibility. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a technique that is widely used in cancer treatment and against various microbes. In this technique, a light‐induced photosensitizer generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), ultimately killing the target cells. Considering these facts, an attempt has been made to review the current literature on viral inactivation using PDT approach. Accordingly, the mechanism of PDT action has been discussed, along with an update on the use of various photosensitizers (PSs) and nanoparticles. The capsid proteins and nucleic acid (RNA) of SARS‐CoV‐2 can be a possible target for PDT.