Mg2+-doped carbon dots synthesized based on Lycium ruthenicum in cell imaging and promoting osteogenic differentiation in vitro

The construction of biomaterials suitable for bone regeneration has been a serious challenge in the medical field. Considering that the process of bone regeneration is difficult to monitor, the application of fluorescent carbon dots (CDs) materials for bone regeneration has received much attention. Here, we developed a Mg2+-doped biogenic carbon dot material and characterized it to determine the optimal ratio of carbon and magnesium sources in the synthesis of the material. Subsequently, its biocompatibility with MC3T3-E1 Subclone 4 (MC3T3) was investigated, and its high biocompatibility was supported by the preparation of biocarbon dots using natural lycium ruthenicum as the carbon source. In addition, our experimental results showed that the appropriate concentration of Mg-CDs was suitable for long-term cell growth and the cells had better growth, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation ability. This Mg2+-doped biomass carbon dot shows great potential in bone tissue regeneration.