Carbon Dots and Mitochondria—Advances in Targeting, Imaging, and Therapeutics

Carbon dots (CDs), a class of fluorescent nanomaterials, have emerged as powerful tools for biological applications, particularly in the targeting, imaging, and therapeutic modulation of mitochondria. Due to their small size, simplicity of synthesis, biocompatibility, and tunable optical properties, CDs can be engineered to selectively accumulate in mitochondria, enabling real-time imaging of mitochondrial function and dynamics in live cells. Moreover, their ability to carry therapeutic agents, such as antioxidants, drugs, and gene delivery vectors, offers potential in treating mitochondrial dysfunction, which is central to various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and metabolic diseases. Recent advancements in surface functionalization have enhanced mitochondrial targeting and specificity, while ongoing research aims to optimize the safety, efficiency, and clinical translation of CDs for therapeutic applications. This review highlights the latest developments in the use of carbon dots for mitochondrial imaging, therapeutic delivery, and disease intervention, offering promising avenues for future research and clinical applications.