Red-light driven photoisomerisation and supramolecular transformation of indigo amphiphiles in aqueous media

Ming Hin Chau, Marc C.A. Stuart, Franco King Chi Leung

Research output: Journal article publicationJournal articleAcademic researchpeer-review

13 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Photoresponsive amphiphiles are functionalised with photoactivating units, enabling dynamic controls of hierarchical supramolecular systems with a non-invasive photo-stimulation. Limited visible-light driven photoresponsive amphiphiles were developed, while biomedical applications of well-developed UV-light driven photoresponsive amphiphiles are hindered due to bio-damaging effect. Herein, we report newly designed red-light responsive N, N′-alkyl-aryl-substituted indigo amphiphiles (IA), showing excellent photoswitchability and photostability in organic media. Upon dissolution of IA in aqueous media, supramolecular nanostructures are constructed at pH 7. Though photoresponsiveness of IA is slightly compromised, co-solvent and co-assembly of IA enable supramolecular transformations from vesicle to irregular aggregate in aqueous media. Through investigation of the photoisomerisation and supramolecular transformation processes, this work could provide as a new strategy towards the development of red-light controlled biomedical soft functional materials.

Original languageEnglish
Article number130939
JournalColloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects
Volume661
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 20 Mar 2023

Keywords

  • Indigo Switch
  • Photoresponsive Molecular Amphiphile
  • Red-Light
  • Supramolecular Assembly
  • Supramolecular Transformation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surfaces and Interfaces
  • Physical and Theoretical Chemistry
  • Colloid and Surface Chemistry

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