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Alfonso I. Supramolecular chemical biology: designed receptors and dynamic chemical systems. Chem Commun (Camb) 2024. [PMID: 39129537 DOI: 10.1039/d4cc03163f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Supramolecular chemistry focuses on the study of species joined by non-covalent interactions, and therefore on dynamic and relatively ill-defined structures. Despite being a well-developed field, it has to face important challenges when dealing with the selective recognition of biomolecules in highly competitive biomimetic media. However, supramolecular interactions reside at the core of chemical biology systems, since many processes in nature are governed by weak, non-covalent, strongly dynamic contacts. Therefore, there is a natural connection between these two research fields, which are not frequently related or share interests. In this feature article, I will highlight our most recent results in the molecular recognition of biologically relevant species, following different conceptual approaches from the most conventional design of elaborated receptors to the less popular dynamic combinatorial chemistry methodology. Selected illustrative examples from other groups will be also included. The discussion has been focused mainly on systems with potential biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Alfonso
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC), The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain.
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2
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Rather IA, Ahmad M, Talukdar P, Ali R. Probing and evaluating transmembrane chloride ion transport in double walled trifluorophenyl/phthalimide extended calix[4]pyrrole-based supramolecular receptors. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:5950-5956. [PMID: 38804847 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02880a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Therapeutic applications have sparked increased interest in the use of synthetic anion receptors for ion transport across lipid membranes. In this context, the construction of synthetic transmembrane transporters for the physiologically important chloride ion is currently of enormous interest. As a result, considerable effort is being devoted to the design and synthesis of artificial transmembrane chloride ion transporters. However, only inadequate progress has been made in developing macrocyclic chloride ion transporters using the fundamental principles of supramolecular chemistry, and hence this field entails fostering investigations. In this investigation, the synthesis of two new double walled trifluorophenyl/phthalimide extended calix[4]pyrrole (C4P) receptors (3 and 7) has been successfully reported. 1H-NMR titration and HRMS studies confirmed the 1 : 1 binding stoichiometry of the chloride ion with these receptors in the solution phase (only receptor 3b was studied by 1H-NMR). Regarding ion transport of 3b and 7, when studied in the HPTS-based vesicular system, 3b showed better activity with an EC50 value of 0.39 μM. The detailed ion transport studies on 3b have revealed that ion transport occurs through the Cl-/NO3- antiport mode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishfaq Ahmad Rather
- Organic and Supramolecular Functional Materials Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, Okhla, New Delhi 110025, India.
| | - Manzoor Ahmad
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, Pune 411008, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Pinaki Talukdar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, Pune 411008, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Rashid Ali
- Organic and Supramolecular Functional Materials Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, Okhla, New Delhi 110025, India.
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Cataldo A, Norvaisa K, Halgreen L, Bodman SE, Bartik K, Butler SJ, Valkenier H. Transmembrane Transport of Inorganic Phosphate by a Strapped Calix[4]pyrrole. J Am Chem Soc 2023. [PMID: 37471295 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c04631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic anion receptors are increasingly being explored for the transport of anions across lipid membranes because of their potential therapeutic applications. A considerable amount of research focuses on the transport of chloride, whereas the transmembrane transport of inorganic phosphate has not been reported to date, despite the biological relevance of this anion. Here we present a calix[4]pyrrole with a bisurea strap that functions as a receptor and transporter for H2PO4-, relying on the formation of eight hydrogen bonds and efficient encapsulation of the anion. Using a phosphate-sensitive lanthanide probe and 31P NMR spectroscopy, we demonstrate that this receptor can transport phosphate into vesicles by H2PO4-/Cl- antiport, H2PO4- uniport, and Cs+/H2PO4- symport mechanisms. This first example of inorganic phosphate transport by a neutral receptor opens perspectives for the future development of transporters for various biological phosphates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Cataldo
- Engineering of Molecular NanoSystems, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Avenue F.D. Roosevelt 50, CP165/64, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karolis Norvaisa
- Engineering of Molecular NanoSystems, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Avenue F.D. Roosevelt 50, CP165/64, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lau Halgreen
- Engineering of Molecular NanoSystems, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Avenue F.D. Roosevelt 50, CP165/64, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Samantha E Bodman
- Department of Chemistry, Loughborough University, Epinal Way, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, U.K
| | - Kristin Bartik
- Engineering of Molecular NanoSystems, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Avenue F.D. Roosevelt 50, CP165/64, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stephen J Butler
- Department of Chemistry, Loughborough University, Epinal Way, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, U.K
| | - Hennie Valkenier
- Engineering of Molecular NanoSystems, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Avenue F.D. Roosevelt 50, CP165/64, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
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Li J, Wang C, Mo Y. Selectivity Rule of Cryptands for Anions: Molecular Rigidity and Bonding Site. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202203558. [PMID: 36538660 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202203558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cryptands utilize inside CH or NH groups as hydrogen bond (H-bond) donors to capture anions such as halides. In this work, the nature and selectivity of confined hydrogen bonds inside cryptands were computationally analyzed with the energy decomposition scheme based on the block-localized wavefunction method (BLW-ED), aiming at an elucidation of governing factors in the binding between cryptands and anions. It was revealed that the intrinsic strengths of inward hydrogen bonds are dominated by the electrostatic attraction, while the anion preferences (selectivity) of inner CH and NH hydrogen bonds are governed by the Pauli exchange repulsion and electrostatic interaction, respectively. Typical conformers of cages are classified into two groups, including the C3(h) -symmetrical conformers, in which all halide anions are located near the centroids of cages, and the "semi-open" conformers, which exhibit shifted bonding sites for different halide anions. Accordingly, the difference in governing factors of selectivity is attributed to either the rigidity of cages or the binding site of anions for these two groups. In details, the C3 conformers of NH cryptands can be enlarged more remarkably than the C3(h) -symmetrical conformers of CH cryptands as the size of anion (ionic radius) increases, resulting in the relaxation of the Pauli repulsion and a dramatic reduction in electrostatic attraction, which eventually rules the selectivity of NH cryptands for halide anions. By contrary, the CH cryptands are more rigid and cannot effectively reduce the Pauli repulsion, which subsequently governs the anion preference. Unlike C3 conformers whose rigidity determines the selectivity, semi-open conformers exhibit different binding sites for different anions. From F- to I- , the bonding site shifts toward the outside end of the pocket inside the semi-open NH cryptand, leading to the significant reduction of the electrostatic interaction that dominates the anion preference. Differently, binding sites are much less affected by the size of anion inside the semi-open CH cryptand, in which the Pauli exchange repulsion remains the key factor for the selectivity of inner hydrogen bonds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayao Li
- Key Laboratory for Macromolecular Science of Shaanxi Province, School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, China
| | - Changwei Wang
- Key Laboratory for Macromolecular Science of Shaanxi Province, School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, China
| | - Yirong Mo
- Department of Nanoscience, Joint School of Nanoscience & Nanoengineering, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, 27401, USA
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Escobar L, Sun Q, Ballester P. Aryl-Extended and Super Aryl-Extended Calix[4]pyrroles: Design, Synthesis, and Applications. Acc Chem Res 2023; 56:500-513. [PMID: 36734050 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.2c00839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
ConspectusProteins exhibit high-binding affinity and selectivity, as well as remarkable catalytic performance. Their binding pockets are hydrophobic but also contain polar and charged groups to contribute to the binding of polar organic molecules in aqueous solution. In the past decades, the synthesis of biomimetic receptors featuring sizable aromatic cavities equipped with converging polar groups has received considerable attention. "Temple" cages, naphthotubes, and aryl-extended calix[4]pyrroles are privileged examples of synthetic scaffolds displaying functionalized hydrophobic cavities capable of binding polar substrates. In particular, calix[4]pyrroles are macrocycles containing four pyrrole rings connected through their pyrrolic 2- and 5-positions by tetra-substituted sp3 carbon atoms (meso-substituents). In 1996, Sessler introduced the meso-octamethyl calix[4]pyrrole as an outstanding receptor for anion binding. Independently, Sessler and Floriani also showed that the introduction of aryl substituents in the meso-positions produced aryl-extended calix[4]pyrroles as a mixture of configurational isomers. In addition, aryl-extended calix[4]pyrroles bearing two and four meso-aryl substituents (walls) were reported. The cone conformation of "two-wall" αα-aryl-extended calix[4]pyrroles features an aromatic cleft with a polar binding site defined by four converging pyrrole NHs. On the other hand, "four-wall" αααα-calix[4]pyrrole isomers possess a deep polar aromatic cavity closed at one end by the converging pyrrole NHs. Because of their functionalized interior, aryl-extended calix[4]pyrroles are capable of binding anions, ion-pairs, and electron-rich neutral molecules in organic solvents. However, in water, they are restricted to the inclusion of neutral polar guests.Since the early 2000s, our research group has been involved in the design and synthesis of "two-wall" and "four-wall" aryl-extended calix[4]pyrroles and their derivatives, such as aryl-extended calix[4]pyrrole cavitands and super aryl-extended calix[4]pyrroles. In this Account, we mainly summarize our own results on the binding of charged and neutral polar guests with these macrocyclic receptors in organic solvents and in water. We also describe the applications of calix[4]pyrrole derivatives in the sensing of creatinine, the facilitated transmembrane transport of anions and amino acids, and the monofunctionalization of bis-isonitriles. Moreover, we explain the use of calix[4]pyrrole receptors as model systems for the quantification of anion-π interactions and the hydrophobic effect. Finally, we discuss the self-assembly of dimeric capsules and unimolecular metallo-cages based on calix[4]pyrrole scaffolds. We comment on their binding properties, as well as on those of bis-calix[4]pyrroles having a fully covalent structure.In molecular recognition, aryl-extended calix[4]pyrroles and their derivatives are considered valuable receptors owing to their ability to interact with a wide variety of electron-rich, neutral, and charged guests. Calix[4]pyrrole scaffolds have also been applied in the development of molecular sensors, ionophores, transmembrane carriers, supramolecular protecting groups and molecular containers modulating chemical reactivity, among others. We believe that the design of new calix[4]pyrrole receptors and the investigation of their binding properties may lead to promising applications in many research areas, such as supramolecular catalysis, chemical biology and materials science. We hope that this Account will serve to spread the knowledge of the supramolecular chemistry of calix[4]pyrroles among supramolecular and nonsupramolecular chemists alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Escobar
- The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ), Av. Països Catalans 16, 43007 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Qingqing Sun
- The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ), Av. Països Catalans 16, 43007 Tarragona, Spain.,School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225002 Jiangsu, China
| | - Pablo Ballester
- The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ), Av. Països Catalans 16, 43007 Tarragona, Spain.,ICREA, Passeig Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
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Aryl- and Superaryl-Extended Calix[4]pyrroles: From Syntheses to Potential Applications. Top Curr Chem (Cham) 2023; 381:7. [PMID: 36607442 DOI: 10.1007/s41061-022-00419-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The incorporation of aryl substituents at the meso-positions of calix[4]pyrrole (C4P) scaffolds produces aryl-extended (AE) and super-aryl-extended (SAE) calix[4]pyrroles. The cone conformation of the all-α isomers of "multi-wall" AE-C4Ps and SAE-C4Ps displays deep aromatic clefts or cavities. In particular, "four-wall" receptors feature an aromatic polar cavity closed at one end with four convergent pyrrole rings and fully open at the opposite end. This makes AE- and SAE-C4P scaffolds effective receptors for the molecular recognition of negatively charged ions and neutral guest molecules with donor-acceptor and hydrogen bonding motifs. In addition, adequately functionalized all-α isomers of multi wall AE- and SAE-C4P scaffolds self-assemble into uni-molecular and supra-molecular aggregates displaying capsular and cage-like structures. The self-assembly process requires the presence of template ions or molecules that lock the C4P cone conformation and complementing the inner polar functions and volumes of their cavities. We envisioned performing an in-depth revision of AE- and SAE-C4P scaffolds owing to their importance in different domains such as supramolecular chemistry, biology, material sciences and pharmaceutical chemistry. Herewith, besides the synthetic details on the elaboration of their structures, we also draw attention to their diverse applications. The organization of this review is mainly based on the number of "walls" present in the AE-C4P derivatives and their structural modifications. The sections are further divided based on the C4P functions and applications. The authors are convinced that this review will be of interest to researchers working in the general area of supramolecular chemistry as well as those involved in the study of the binding properties and applications of C4P derivatives.
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Rather IA, Riaz U, Ali R. Experimental and Computational Anion Binding Studies of meso-Substituted One-Walled Phthalimide-based Calix[4]pyrrole. J Mol Struct 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2023.135065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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Maslowska-Jarzyna K, Bąk KM, Zawada B, Chmielewski MJ. pH-Dependent transport of amino acids across lipid bilayers by simple monotopic anion carriers. Chem Sci 2022; 13:12374-12381. [PMID: 36382290 PMCID: PMC9629080 DOI: 10.1039/d2sc04346g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The transport of amino acids across lipid membranes is vital for the proper functioning of every living cell. In spite of that, examples of synthetic transporters that can facilitate amino acid transport are rare. This is mainly because at physiological conditions amino acids predominantly exist as highly polar zwitterions and proper shielding of their charged termini, which is necessary for fast diffusion across lipophilic membranes, requires complex and synthetically challenging heteroditopic receptors. Here we report the first simple monotopic anion receptor, dithioamide 1, that efficiently transports a variety of natural amino acids across lipid bilayers at physiological pH. Mechanistic studies revealed that the receptor rapidly transports deprotonated amino acids, even though at pH 7.4 these forms account for less than 3% of the total amino acid concentration. We also describe a new fluorescent assay for the selective measurement of the transport of deprotonated amino acids into liposomes. The new assay allowed us to study the pH-dependence of amino acid transport and elucidate the mechanism of transport by 1, as well as to explain its exceptionally high activity. With the newly developed assay we screened also four other representative examples of monotopic anion transporters, of which two showed promising activity. Our results imply that heteroditopic receptors are not necessary for achieving high amino acid transport activities and that many of the previously reported anionophores might be active amino acid transporters. Based on these findings, we propose a new strategy for the development of artificial amino acid transporters with improved properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystyna Maslowska-Jarzyna
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw Żwirki i Wigury 101 Warsaw 02-089 Poland
| | - Krzysztof M Bąk
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw Żwirki i Wigury 101 Warsaw 02-089 Poland
| | - Bartłomiej Zawada
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw Żwirki i Wigury 101 Warsaw 02-089 Poland
| | - Michał J Chmielewski
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw Żwirki i Wigury 101 Warsaw 02-089 Poland
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Martínez‐Crespo L, Valkenier H. Transmembrane Transport of Bicarbonate by Anion Receptors. Chempluschem 2022; 87:e202200266. [PMID: 36414387 PMCID: PMC9827909 DOI: 10.1002/cplu.202200266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The development of synthetic anion transporters is motivated by their potential application as treatment for diseases that originate from deficient anion transport by natural proteins. Transport of bicarbonate is important for crucial biological functions such as respiration and digestion. Despite this biological relevance, bicarbonate transport has not been as widely studied as chloride transport. Herein we present an overview of the synthetic receptors that have been studied as bicarbonate transporters, together with the different assays used to perform transport studies in large unilamellar vesicles. We highlight the most active transporters and comment on the nature of the functional groups present in active and inactive compounds. We also address recent mechanistic studies that have revealed different processes that can lead to net transport of bicarbonate, as well as studies reported in cells and tissues, and comment on the key challenges for the further development of bicarbonate transporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Martínez‐Crespo
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of ManchesterOxford RoadManchesterM13 9PLUK,Manchester Institute of BiotechnologyUniversity of Manchester131 Princess StreetManchesterM1 7DNUK,Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) Engineering of Molecular NanoSystemsEcole polytechnique de BruxellesAvenue F.D. Roosevelt 50, CP165/64B-1050BrusselsBelgium
| | - Hennie Valkenier
- Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) Engineering of Molecular NanoSystemsEcole polytechnique de BruxellesAvenue F.D. Roosevelt 50, CP165/64B-1050BrusselsBelgium
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Morozova JE, Myaldzina CR, Voloshina AD, Lyubina AP, Amerhanova SK, Syakaev VV, Ziganshina AY, Antipin IS. Сalixresorcine cavitands bearing lipophilic cationic fragments in the construction of mitochondrial-targeting supramolecular nanoparticles. Colloids Surf A Physicochem Eng Asp 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2022.128622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Rather IA, Ali R, Ali A. Recent developments in calix[4]pyrrole (C4P)-based supramolecular functional systems. Org Chem Front 2022. [DOI: 10.1039/d2qo01298g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances with calix[4]pyrrole-based supramolecular functional entities in the fields of molecular recognition (receptors, sensors, and metal ion caged systems), self-assembly (polymers), photo/pH-responsive molecular switches and catalysis are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishfaq Ahmad Rather
- Organic and Supramolecular Functional Materials Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, Okhla, New Delhi-110025, India
| | - Rashid Ali
- Organic and Supramolecular Functional Materials Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, Okhla, New Delhi-110025, India
| | - Ayaaz Ali
- Organic and Supramolecular Functional Materials Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, Okhla, New Delhi-110025, India
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KHURANA RAMAN, Yang F, Khurana R, Liu J, Keinan E, Reany O. semiaza-Bambusurils are Anion-Specific Transmembrane Transporters . Chem Commun (Camb) 2022; 58:3150-3153. [DOI: 10.1039/d2cc00144f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
semiaza-Bambus[6]urils efficiently transport anions across lipid membranes. A systematic modification of their lipophilic side chains to include various alkyl groups and thioethers reveal that the most efficient chloride transporters are...
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Macreadie LK, Gilchrist AM, McNaughton DA, Ryder WG, Fares M, Gale PA. Progress in anion receptor chemistry. Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chempr.2021.10.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Li Y, Dong J, Gong W, Tang X, Liu Y, Cui Y, Liu Y. Artificial Biomolecular Channels: Enantioselective Transmembrane Transport of Amino Acids Mediated by Homochiral Zirconium Metal-Organic Cages. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:20939-20951. [PMID: 34851640 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c09992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Natural transport channels (or carriers), such as aquaporins, are a distinct type of biomacromolecule capable of highly effective transmembrane transport of water or ions. Such behavior is routine for biology but has proved difficult to achieve in synthetic systems. Perhaps most significantly, the enantioselective transmembrane transport of biomolecules is an especially challenging problem both for chemists and for natural systems. Herein, a group of homochiral zirconium metal-organic cages with four triangular opening windows have been proposed as artificial biomolecular channels for enantioselective transmembrane transport of natural amino acids. These structurally well-defined coordination cages are assembled from six synthetically accessible BINOL-derived chiral ligands as spacers and four n-Bu3-Cp3Zr3 clusters as vertices, forming tetrahedral-shaped architectures that feature an intrinsically chiral cavity decorated with an array of specifically positioned binding sites mediated from phenol to phenyl ether to crown ether groups. Fascinatingly, the transformation of single-molecule chirality to global supramolecular chirality within the space-restricted chiral microenvironments accompanies unprecedented chiral amplification, leading to the enantiospecific recognition of amino acids. By virtue of the highly structural stability and excellent biocompatibility, the orientation-independent cages can be molecularly embedded into lipid membranes, biomimetically serving as single-molecular chiral channels for polar-residue amino acids, with the properties that cage-1 featuring hydroxyl groups preferentially transports the l-asparagine, whereas cage-2 attaching crown ether groups spontaneously favor transporting d-arginine. We therefore develop a new type of self-assembled system that can potentially mimic the functions of transmembrane proteins in nature, which is a realistic candidate for further biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingguo Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Jinqiao Dong
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Wei Gong
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xianhui Tang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yuhao Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yong Cui
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yan Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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Liu X, Tang J, Yang J, Zhang H, Fang Y. Conformationally tunable calix[4]pyrrole-based nanofilms for efficient molecular separation. J Colloid Interface Sci 2021; 610:368-375. [PMID: 34923274 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2021.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Preparation of nanofilms which are able to reject water-soluble low molecular weight organic compounds in nanofiltration remains to be a challenge. Herein, we report a new kind of self-standing, defect-free, robust, centimeter-sized and thickness controllable calix[4]pyrrole (C[4]P)-based nanofilms with excellent molecular sieving performance in nanofiltration. The nanofilms were prepared via confined dynamic condensation of the tetra-benzoyl-hydrazine derivative of calix[4]pyrrole (CPTBH) with 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxaldehyde (BTC) at the air/dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) interface. Nanofiltration tests under 2 bar pressure with porous polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as the support and a CsF treated CPTBH-BTC nanofilm (∼100 nm) as the selective layer depicted a water permeance of 15 L m-2h-1 bar-1 and a methanol permeance of 45 L m-2h-1 bar-1. High rejection rates (>95%) were found in aqueous solution for most of the tested dyes and pharmaceuticals. Remarkably, the composite membrane also demonstrated good separation performance in aqueous phase to some amino acids and organic dyes with molecular weights around 200 g/mol. High-performance nanofiltration in methanol was also realized. In this case, the molecular weight cutoff value is ∼ 800 g/mol. These findings showed that introduction of macrocyclic hosts is an effective way to develop nanofilms with high solvent permeance but low molecular weight cutoff value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangquan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Ministry of Education), School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, PR China
| | - Jiaqi Tang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Ministry of Education), School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, PR China
| | - Jinglun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Ministry of Education), School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, PR China
| | - Helan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Ministry of Education), School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, PR China
| | - Yu Fang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry (Ministry of Education), School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, PR China.
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Bravin C, Duindam N, Hunter CA. Artificial transmembrane signal transduction mediated by dynamic covalent chemistry. Chem Sci 2021; 12:14059-14064. [PMID: 34760189 PMCID: PMC8565364 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc04741h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Reversible formation of covalent adducts between a thiol and a membrane-anchored Michael acceptor has been used to control the activation of a caged enzyme encapsulated inside vesicles. A peptide substrate and papain, caged as the mixed disulfide with methane thiol, were encapsulated inside vesicles, which contained Michael acceptors embedded in the lipid bilayer. In the absence of the Michael acceptor, addition of thiols to the external aqueous solution did not activate the enzyme to any significant extent. In the presence of the Michael acceptor, addition of benzyl thiol led to uncaging of the enzyme and hydrolysis of the peptide substrate to generate a fluorescence output signal. A charged thiol used as the input signal did not activate the enzyme. A Michael acceptor with a polar head group that cannot cross the lipid bilayer was just as effective at delivering benzyl thiol to the inner compartment of the vesicles as a non-polar Michael acceptor that can diffuse across the bilayer. The concentration dependence of the output signal suggests that the mechanism of signal transduction is based on increasing the local concentration of thiol present in the vesicles by the formation of Michael adducts. An interesting feature of this system is that enzyme activation is transient, which means that sequential addition of aliquots of thiol can be used to repeatedly generate an output signal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Bravin
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Lensfield Road Cambridge CB2 1EW UK
| | - Nol Duindam
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Lensfield Road Cambridge CB2 1EW UK
| | - Christopher A Hunter
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Lensfield Road Cambridge CB2 1EW UK
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Bickerton LE, Johnson TG, Kerckhoffs A, Langton MJ. Supramolecular chemistry in lipid bilayer membranes. Chem Sci 2021; 12:11252-11274. [PMID: 34567493 PMCID: PMC8409493 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc03545b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipid bilayer membranes form compartments requisite for life. Interfacing supramolecular systems, including receptors, catalysts, signal transducers and ion transporters, enables the function of the membrane to be controlled in artificial and living cellular compartments. In this perspective, we take stock of the current state of the art of this rapidly expanding field, and discuss prospects for the future in both fundamental science and applications in biology and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Bickerton
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford Chemistry Research Laboratory 12 Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
| | - Toby G Johnson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford Chemistry Research Laboratory 12 Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
| | - Aidan Kerckhoffs
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford Chemistry Research Laboratory 12 Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
| | - Matthew J Langton
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford Chemistry Research Laboratory 12 Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
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Rapid Production and Purification of Dye-Loaded Liposomes by Electrodialysis-Driven Depletion. MEMBRANES 2021; 11:membranes11060417. [PMID: 34072746 PMCID: PMC8228697 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11060417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Liposomes are spherical-shaped vesicles that enclose an aqueous milieu surrounded by bilayer or multilayer membranes formed by self-assembly of lipid molecules. They are intensively exploited as either model membranes for fundamental studies or as vehicles for delivery of active substances in vivo and in vitro. Irrespective of the method adopted for production of loaded liposomes, obtaining the final purified product is often achieved by employing multiple, time consuming steps. To alleviate this problem, we propose a simplified approach for concomitant production and purification of loaded liposomes by exploiting the Electrodialysis-Driven Depletion of charged molecules from solutions. Our investigations show that electrically-driven migration of charged detergent and dye molecules from solutions that include natural or synthetic lipid mixtures leads to rapid self-assembly of loaded, purified liposomes, as inferred from microscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy assessments. In addition, the same procedure was successfully applied for incorporating PEGylated lipids into the membranes for the purpose of enabling long-circulation times needed for potential in vivo applications. Dynamic Light Scattering analyses and comparison of electrically-formed liposomes with liposomes produced by sonication or extrusion suggest potential use for numerous in vitro and in vivo applications.
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Sierra AF, Aragay G, Peñuelas-Haro G, Ballester P. Supramolecular fluorescence sensing of l-proline and l-pipecolic acid. Org Chem Front 2021. [DOI: 10.1039/d1qo00517k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Fluorescent mono-phosphonate calix[4]pyrrole cavitands display selectivity in amino acids' sensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Felipe Sierra
- Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)
- The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST)
- 43007 Tarragona
- Spain
- Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV)
| | - Gemma Aragay
- Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)
- The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST)
- 43007 Tarragona
- Spain
| | - Guillem Peñuelas-Haro
- Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)
- The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST)
- 43007 Tarragona
- Spain
| | - Pablo Ballester
- Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)
- The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST)
- 43007 Tarragona
- Spain
- ICREA
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