Non-equilibrium steady states in supramolecular polymerization.

Area of Science:

• Supramolecular chemistry
• Biomaterials science
• Chemical engineering

Background:

• Living systems utilize fuel-driven polymers, like actin, for cellular functions, relying on continuous fuel supply and waste removal to maintain steady states.
• Artificial fuel-driven polymers have been developed, but achieving sustained non-equilibrium steady states (NESS) remains a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an artificial fuel-driven supramolecular polymer capable of maintaining a sustained non-equilibrium steady state (NESS).
• To demonstrate a method for controlling polymer assembly and disassembly using phosphorylation and dephosphorylation within a reactor system.

Main Methods:

• Engineered a supramolecular polymer whose assembly/disassembly is regulated by phosphorylation/dephosphorylation.
• Utilized a membrane reactor to continuously supply adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and remove waste products.
• Monitored polymer behavior under continuous flow conditions to assess steady-state maintenance.

Main Results:

• Successfully maintained the artificial supramolecular polymer in a long-lived non-equilibrium steady state (NESS) within the membrane reactor.
• Demonstrated that continuous removal of waste products prevents inhibition and allows the reaction cycle to persist.
• Showcased the ability to sustain polymer dynamics by managing fuel and waste levels.

Conclusions:

• Developed a novel system for achieving sustained NESS in artificial fuel-driven polymers.
• The membrane reactor approach effectively overcomes waste product inhibition, enabling long-lived dynamic material behavior.
• This strategy holds potential for creating more life-like behaviors in various stimuli-responsive materials.