Light-driven brake stops molecular machines

July 1, 2008
Molecular machines (either synthetic or biological) are defined as molecules or groups of molecules that perform mechanical-like movements in response to certain stimuli (light, electricity, or chemical energy).

Molecular machines (either synthetic or biological) are defined as molecules or groups of molecules that perform mechanical-like movements in response to certain stimuli (light, electricity, or chemical energy). Because a braking system is important for any moving object, researchers at National Taiwan University and Academia Sinica (both in Taipei, Taiwan) have developed the first light-driven, room-temperature molecular brake.

Based on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies, spectral simulations, and molecular modeling, it is possible to calculate the rotation rate of the rigid pentiptycene group, a four-bladed wheel structure that can exhibit two different motion states (trans-1 and cis-1). In dichloromethane solution at 298 K, the pentiptycene wheel freely rotates in a trans-1 state but slows by nine orders of magnitude in the cis-1 state. The two states can be switched by using different wavelengths of light (306 and 254 nm) due to the wavelength-sensitive dinitrostyryl group within the pentiptycene. This molecular “brake” could be attached to other molecular machines in solution to effectively control or stop their motion as a function of illumination wavelength. Contact Jye-Shane Yang at [email protected].

Sponsored Recommendations

Understanding 3D Printing Tolerances: A Guide to Achieving Precision in Additive Manufacturing

March 28, 2024
In the world of additive manufacturing, precision is paramount. One crucial aspect of ensuring precision in 3D printing is understanding tolerances. In this article, we’ll explore...

Horizon Microtechnologies: Coating 3D Printed Parts with Functional Materials

March 28, 2024
Andreas Frölich from Horizon Microtechnologies talks innovations in 3D micro-parts printing with functional materials for various industries.

Melles Griot® XPLAN™ CCG Lens Series

March 19, 2024
IDEX Health & Science sets a new standard with our Melles Griot® XPLAN™ CCG Lens Series fluorescence microscope imaging systems. Access superior-quality optics with off-the-shelf...

Spatial Biology

March 19, 2024
Spatial Biology refers to the field that integrates spatial information into biological research, allowing for the study of biological systems in their native spatial context....

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!