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Updated: Oct 19, 2025

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Directing Coupled Motion with Light: A Key Step Toward Machine-Like Function.

Romain Costil1, Mira Holzheimer1, Stefano Crespi1

  • 1Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands.

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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Light-powered molecular switches and motors enable directed motion in responsive systems. This technology allows for precise control over molecular shape and function, paving the way for nanoscale machines.

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Area of Science:

  • Molecular machines
  • Supramolecular chemistry
  • Materials science

Background:

  • Molecular photoactuators control system properties via supramolecular interactions.
  • Effects can be amplified for micro- and macroscopic work in materials and biomimetic systems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the emergence of directed, coupled motion triggered by light.
  • To highlight the use of light-powered switches and motors for controlling molecular topology and function.

Main Methods:

  • Focus on stereochemical cascades amplifying light-generated motion.
  • Utilizing conformationally restricted stereogenic elements for motion transfer.
  • Reviewing studies on remote control of molecular conformation and motion.

Main Results:

  • Photoresponsive structures translate conformational changes to perform work against Brownian motion.
  • Stereochemical cascades amplify light-induced motion to distant molecular parts.
  • Directed, coupled motion of remote functionalities is triggered by light.

Conclusions:

  • Light-powered molecular motion offers precise control over molecular systems.
  • This field holds promise for designing the smallest imaginable machines.
  • Controlling molecular topology and function remotely is achievable.