Revitalizing mitochondrial function and empowering spinal cord recovery using copper-catalyzed Pdots

[Display omitted] •We employ a copper-catalyzed green synthesis protocol to produce Pdots.•Copper-catalyzed Pdots exhibit excellent mitochondrial function repair effects.•The AMPK/PGC-1α/Sirt3 pathway, a distinctive molecular mechanism combating mitochondrial dysfunction, was identified.•A novel green medicine was tested to treat acute SCI in mice. Spinal cord injury (SCI) inflicts devastating consequences for health. While drugs have been employed to alleviate SCI symptoms, their complex synthesis procedures and the need for specialized drug delivery raise concerns regarding administration. Herein, we utilize a green synthesis protocol to produce polymer quantum dots (Pdots) from polyvinylpyrrolidone precursors, empowered by the catalytic prowess of copper. These Copper-catalyzed Pdots (CPdots) not only offer enhanced improved fluorescence properties but also exhibit remarkable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mitochondrial function repair effects. An intriguing finding emerged from our research as CPdots were observed to activate the AMPK/PGC-1α/Sirt3 pathway-a distinctive molecular mechanism that combats mitochondrial dysfunction, and mitigates calcium overload associated with acute SCI. Furthermore, the rapid metabolism and exceptional biocompatibility of our CPdots reinforce their safety and efficacy.