LAUSR

Fluorescently labeled starch nanocrystal (FL-SNC) was synthesized using a simple, low-cost, and scalable two-step chemical modification process. Reactive amino groups were introduced onto the SNC surface through silanization with 3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES), and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) groups were covalently attached through thiourea. Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, solid-state cross-polarization magic-angle spinning 13C NMR, UV–visible absorbance spectrophotometry, and fluorescence emission spectroscopy confirmed the successful introduction of the fluorescent groups. Transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction data indicated that the dispersibility of FL-SNC was significantly improved, and the original crystallinity and morphology were retained. Compared with a mixture of uncoupled FITC and SNC, covalently connected FL-SNC displayed a more obvious fluorescence intensity and higher photostability. Furthermore, FL-SNC was biocompatib...