Redox-Controlled, Sequential Self-Sorting of Supramolecular Assemblies in Model Protocells.

Area of Science:

• Supramolecular chemistry
• Biomimetic systems
• Chemical kinetics

Background:

• Cellular self-sorting maintains biological order and function.
• Synthetic self-assembly traditionally uses thermodynamic control.
• Kinetically controlled self-assembly is crucial for biological spatiotemporal organization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To achieve sequential self-sorting in synthetic assemblies using kinetic control.
• To develop multi-component biomimetic systems mimicking cellular self-organization.
• To demonstrate stepwise formation of self-sorted structures within model protocells.

Main Methods:

• Exploiting differences in monomer chemical reactivity coupled to redox reactions.
• Utilizing distinct redox potentials for temporal control of self-sorting.
• Employing reversible oxidation and reduction reactions to control assembly and disassembly.

Main Results:

• Achieved sequential self-sorting of supramolecular assemblies based on monomer reactivity.
• Demonstrated kinetically controlled growth of self-sorted structures within lipid vesicles.
• Showcased transient disruption and reassembly of assemblies via redox reactions.

Conclusions:

• The developed strategy enables temporal control over synthetic self-assembly.
• This approach provides a pathway for creating complex, multi-component biomimetic systems.
• The method facilitates stepwise formation of self-sorted assemblies within protocell models.