Evaluation of Alterations in Behaviour, Cognition, and Neuronal Excitability Induced by Administration of QTracker

Studies of Quantum Dots biodistribution have shown that these nanoparticles accumulate in various organs, including brain parenchyma, possibly causing functional alterations. To investigate its potential neurotoxicity, we administered QDs to young mice and studied their behaviour during the following weeks. Spontaneous locomotor behaviour in the home cage was not significantly altered in treated mice, the Rotarod and Grip Strength Meter tests were normal, whereas memory deficits were found with the Novel Object Recognition test up to three weeks after the injection. We also found a significant increase in the neuronal excitability of QDstreated mice, following the administration of a Pentylenetetrazol challenge.