Light-driven host-guest supramolecular transport engineering an antibacterial trap switch

Area of Science:

• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Nature utilizes light energy for sophisticated processes.
• Antibacterial agents often lack precise control over release and can exhibit cytotoxicity.
• Developing controllable antimicrobial systems is crucial for infection management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To engineer a bioinspired, light-gated supramolecular system for controlled antimicrobial agent release.
• To demonstrate precise spatiotemporal control over bacterial eradication.
• To establish a general platform for adaptive supramolecular systems.

Main Methods:

• Utilized cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) and an azobenzene derivative (Azo-E) in a host-guest system.
• Employed ultraviolet (UV) irradiation to trigger E-Z isomerization of the azobenzene derivative.
• Engineered conformational reorganization for controlled release of encapsulated antibacterial agents.

Main Results:

• Achieved >99.9% bacterial eradication.
• Demonstrated reversible switching of antimicrobial release.
• Showcased reduced mammalian cell cytotoxicity compared to conventional methods.
• Confirmed spray-coatability on biomaterial surfaces for localized disinfection.

Conclusions:

• The developed light-gated supramolecular system provides precise spatiotemporal control over bioactive cargo release.
• This bioinspired antibacterial trap switch offers an effective platform for adaptive infection control.
• The system demonstrates potential for localized disinfection on various biomaterial surfaces.