Diamond-based quantum sensing for free radical detection in cells and tissues

Claudia Reyes University Medical Center Groningen

Diamond-based quantum sensing, through the use of nitrogen vacancy (NV) centers embedded in diamond crystals, has revolutionized the study of cellular biology by providing unprecedented capabilities in free radical sensing [1,2]. This groundbreaking technique, known as relaxometry, leverages the unique properties of NV centers to translate magnetic noise into optical signals, achieving remarkable sensitivity and nanoscale spatial resolution.

The ability of relaxometry to detect free radical production within living cells is pivotal for understanding various biological processes. For example, this technology has illuminated the role of free radicals in sperm development [3] and provided real-time, subcellular monitoring of their involvement in cancer cell migration [4], offering critical insights into metastatic mechanisms.

Moreover, diamond-based quantum sensing paves the way for exploring complex biological samples, including tissues and entire organisms, with NV centers. Despite the potential, challenges such as particle control, reproducibility, and biocompatibility must be overcome to fully harness this technology.

In summary, diamond-based quantum sensing represents a transformative advancement in the detection and characterization of free radicals within living cells, offering profound implications for our comprehension of cellular dynamics, disease progression, and the essential roles of free radicals in biological systems.

[1] Mzyk A, Sigaeva A, Schirhagl R. Relaxometry with Nitrogen Vacancy (NV) Centers in Diamond. Acc Chem Res. 2022 Dec 20;55(24):3572-3580.

[2] Nie, L., Nusantara, A. C., Damle, V. G., Sharmin, R., Evans, E. P. P., Hemelaar, S. R., Van Der Laan, K. J., Li, R., Martinez, F. P. P., Vedelaar, T., Chipaux, M., & Schirhagl, R. (2021). Quantum monitoring of cellular metabolic activities in single mitochondria. Science Advances, 7(21).

[3] Reyes-San-Martin, C., Hamoh, T., Zhang, Y., Berendse, L., Klijn, C., Li, R., Llumbet, A. E., Sigaeva, A.,Kawałko, J., Mzyk, A., & Schirhagl, R. (2022). Nanoscale MRI for selective labeling and localized free radical measurements in the acrosomes of single sperm cells. ACS Nano, 16(7), 10701–10710.

[4] Reyes-San-Martin, C., Elías-Llumbet, A., Escobar-Chaves, E., Manterola, M., Mzyk, A., & Schirhagl, R. (2024). Diamond-based quantum sensing of free radicals in migrating human breast cancer cells. Carbon, 228, 119405.