New Redox-Dependent Binding Systems for Supramolecular Applications

在这个由化学部大分子、超分子和纳米化学项目资助的项目中，圣地亚哥州立大学的Diane K. Smith开发了通过电子转移控制超分子结构的新方法。第一组项目建立在先前的两个氢键系统的基础上，通过探索不同的方法在现有的三个和四个氢键homo- and heterodimers中产生氧化还原依赖性。第二组项目解决了开发在水溶液中工作的强、选择性、开/关氧化还原依赖的结合系统的需求。一个全新的方法基于使用自由基pi二聚化将被探索。超分子化学的许多高级应用将需要一些利用外部信号控制结构的手段。电子转移是一种特别有吸引力的方法，因为它提供了超分子组装的纳米世界和传统电子学的微观领域之间的天然通道。这项研究为电子传递信号开辟了新的可能性，可能会影响许多未来的技术，包括分子电子学、智能材料和分子机器。更直接的是，它将为不同群体的本科生和研究生提供优秀的教育和培训，其中许多人来自科学界代表性不足的群体。

In this project funded by the Macromolecular, Supramolecular and Nanochemistry Program of the Chemistry Division, Diane K. Smith of San Diego State University develops new methods to control supramolecular structure through electron transfer. The first set of projects builds upon previous work with two hydrogen-bond systems by exploring different means to create redox-dependence in existing three and four hydrogen-bond homo- and heterodimers. The second set of projects addresses the need to develop strong, selective, on/off redox-dependent binding systems that work in aqueous solution. A completely new approach based on the use of radical pi-dimerizations will be explored. Many advanced applications of supramolecular chemistry will require some means to control structure using an external signal. Electron transfer is a particularly attractive approach because it provides a natural conduit between the nanoscopic world of supramolecular assemblies and the microscopic realm of conventional electronics. The new possibilities for electron transfer signaling opened up by this research may impact a number of future technologies, including molecular electronics, smart materials, and molecular machines. More immediately, it will provide excellent education and training to a diverse group of undergraduate and graduate students, many of whom are from groups under-represented in science.