pH clock-operated mechanized nanoparticles

J Am Chem Soc. 2009 Sep 16;131(36):12912-4. doi: 10.1021/ja9010157.

Abstract

Mechanized nanoparticles (MNPs) consisting of supramolecular machines attached to the surface of mesoporous silica nanoparticles are designed to release encapsulated guest molecules controllably under pH activation. The molecular machines are comprised of cucurbit[6]uril (CB[6]) rings that encircle tethered trisammonium stalks and can be tuned to respond under specific pH conditions through chemical modification of the stalks. Luminescence spectroscopy demonstrates that the MNPs are able to contain guest molecules within nanopores at neutral pH levels and then release them once the pH is lowered or raised.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Delayed-Action Preparations / chemistry*
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Silicon Dioxide / chemistry*
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Silicon Dioxide