Supramolecular chemistry at interfaces: host-guest interactions for fabricating multifunctional biointerfaces

Area of Science:

• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Surface Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Host-guest chemistry enhances biomolecule-ligand binding selectivity through recognition-directed interactions.
• Interfacial molecular recognition is crucial for biological processes and developing new biomaterials.
• Mimicking nature's adaptive molecular systems requires combining host-guest chemistry with surface science.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in multifunctional stimuli-responsive biointerfaces and biosurfaces.
• To highlight the fabrication of these surfaces using cyclodextrin- or cucurbituril-based host-guest chemistry.
• To discuss potential applications in drug delivery, bioelectrocatalysis, and reversible biomolecule adsorption.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of stimuli-responsive supramolecular assemblies via host-guest interactions.
• Transferring host-guest chemistry from solution to surfaces for biointerface construction.
• Utilizing surface technologies like self-assembled monolayers and layer-by-layer assembly.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated stimuli-responsive biointerfaces and biosurfaces using cyclodextrin/cucurbituril host-guest chemistry.
• Showcased applications in drug release, reversible adsorption/release of molecules, peptides, proteins, and cells.
• Achieved photoswitchable bioelectrocatalysis and response to UV light, pH, redox chemistry, and competitive guests.

Conclusions:

• Host-guest chemistry combined with surface science is critical for next-generation multifunctional biointerfaces.
• These biointerfaces exhibit efficient stimuli-responsiveness and biocompatibility, mimicking biological systems.
• Future designs can further advance supramolecular chemistry at interfaces for novel applications.