Fig. 1
Characterization of the functionalized TKCP and TKCP@DEX. TEM images of TKCP (a) and TKCP@DEX (b) NPs. Scale bar: 200 nm. c DLS characterization of TKCP and TKCP@DEX NPs. d The zeta potential of TKCP and TKCP@DEX NPs. e UV–vis absorption spectra of Cy5.5, BHQ-3 and TKCP NPs. Fluorescence intensity (f) and Relative fluorescence intensity (g) of TKCP in different concentrations of KO2 (0 μM, 50 μM and 100 μM) or ROS inhibitor (NAC) for different times. Ex/Em of Cy5.5: 675/695 nm. h Size change of the TKCP NPs incubated in pH 7.4 PBS buffer containing KO2 (0, 50 and 100 μM) or with ROS inhibitor (NAC) for different times. i Cumulative DEX release from the TKCP@DEX NPs after incubation in PBS containing different concentrations of KO2 (0 μM, 50 μM and 100 μM) or with ROS inhibitor (NAC) for different times at 37 °C. (n = 3, mean ± SD)