Alexis Ostrowski
Email: aostrowski@chem.ucsb.edu
My dissertation research is concerned with developing new materials
in which semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) act as photosensitizers for
photochemical compounds attached to the surface. (see figure) While
the goal is to use the modified QDs for materials for therapeutic
nitric oxide (NO) delivery, much of this research is concerned with
understanding the fundamental photochemistry and photophysics of such
modified QDs. Specific aims of the research are:
1: To synthesize and then investigate the photophysical properties of
the QDs with covalently attached NO precursors. Initial efforts are
focused on CdSe/ZnS core/shell QDs, and the NO precursor
trans-Cr(cyclam)(ONO)2+.
2: To determine and characterize the biological properties of these
new materials. The long term stabilities and toxicities of the QD/NO
precursor assemblies will be evaluated in cell culture experiments.
Subsequent studies will examine the photoexcitation of these materials
(under both SPE and TPE) in cultures in order to evaluate the effects
of photochemical delivery of NO to specific biological systems.
