The effect of π-Conjugation on the self-assembly of micelles and controlled cargo release

Here we presented a novel micelle self-assembled from amphiphiles with π-conjugated moieties (OEG-DPH). The π-conjugated structural integrity of the micelles enabled stable encapsulation of Nile Red (NR, model drug). The self-assembly behaviour of the amphiphiles and the release profile of NR loaded micelles were investigated. Spherical core-shell structured NR loaded micelles with low CMC of 57 μg/mL and the efficient intracellular delivery process was monitored. This research provided a way to fabricate stable polymeric micelles and develop a practical nanocarrier for therapeutics delivery.

Construction of bis-, tris- and tetrahydrazones by addition of azoalkenes to amines and ammonia

Exhaustive Michael-type alkylations of amines and ammonia with azoalkenes (generated from α-halohydrazones) were demonstrated as an efficient approach to poly(hydrazonomethyl)amines - a novel class of polynitrogen ligands. An intramolecular cyclotrimerization of C=N bonds in tris(hydrazonomethyl)amine to the respective 1,4,6,10-tetraazaadamantane derivative was demonstrated.

Dynamic disulfide metathesis induced by ultrasound

The reversible metathesis of disulfide bonds is generally induced by a combination of a reducing agent and base or by irradiation with ultraviolet light. Here we report that ultrasound irradiation is suitable for generating clean equilibrium mixtures of disulfides within one hour or one day, depending on the sonication source. Preliminary mechanistic investigations suggest that the solvent plays an active role in producing initiator radicals.

Synthetic molecular machines and polymer/monomer size switches that operate through dynamic and non-dynamic covalent changes

The present chapter is focused on how synthetic molecular machines (e.g. shuttles, switches and molecular motors) and size switches (conversions between polymers and their units, i.e., conversions between relatively large and small molecules) can function through covalent changes. Amongst the interesting examples of devices herein presented are molecular motors and size switches based on dynamic covalent chemistry which is an area of constitutional dynamic chemistry.