The interplay of biological machines depends critically on the bidirectionality of chemical information exchange. The implementation of such a communication procedure for abiological systems is achieved using two nanoswitches that both operate as transmitters and receivers by transfering copper ions in oxidation states +I and +II. Even at micromolar concentrations, communication in both directions is remarkably fast, occurring at t1/2 =2-3 min. Metal ion translocation triggers a 20 Å relocation of the toggle at both nanoswitches, entailing major geometric and electronic changes.
Keywords: chemical communication; nanoswitches; orthogonal coordination; redox reactions; reversible switching.
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