An Artificial Molecular Pump Powered by Light
Abstract
ABSTRACT Replicating the ability of biological systems to convert energy into directional molecular motion to perform functions is a central challenge in nanoscience. Artificial molecular pumps that can move substrates energetically uphill remain elusive, particularly when powered by light in an autonomous fashion. We report a molecular pump that uses light to actively transfer macrocycles from solution into a high‐energy intramolecular compartment. The system operates via a photon‐driven energy ratchet mechanism, sustaining a non‐equilibrium distribution of species under continuous irradiation. All relevant kinetic and thermodynamic parameters were determined, and a comprehensive mechanistic model was developed. This minimalistic and robust design establishes a foundation for fully synthetic light‐controlled non‐equilibrium systems with potential applications in adaptive materials and solar energy conversion.
Article Details
Authors (8)
Federico Nicoli
Alma Mater Studiorum─Università di Bologna , , Via Gobetti 85 , ,
Chiara Taticchi
Alma Mater Studiorum─Università di Bologna , , Via Gobetti 85 , ,
Stefano Corra
CLAN‐Center for Light Activated Nanostructures Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna and National Research Council of Italy (CNR) Bologna Italy
Marina Tranfić Bakić
CLAN‐Center for Light Activated Nanostructures Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna and National Research Council of Italy (CNR) Bologna Italy
Massimo Baroncini
Center for Light Activated Nanomaterials (CLAN) , via Gobetti 101 , ,
Serena Silvi
CLAN‐Center for Light Activated Nanostructures Alma Mater Studiorum ‐ Università di Bologna and National Research Council of Italy Bologna Italy
Jessica Groppi
CLAN‐Center for Light Activated Nanostructures Alma Mater Studiorum ‐ Università di Bologna and National Research Council of Italy Bologna Italy
Alberto Credi
Alma Mater Studiorum─Università di Bologna , , Via Gobetti 85 , ,