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Updated: May 29, 2026

Rapid Encapsulation of Reconstituted Cytoskeleton Inside Giant Unilamellar Vesicles
Published on: November 10, 2021
Light-responsive aggregation of vesicles using host-guest interaction of β-cyclodextrin and diazocine
Ashutosh Kanojiya1, Anurag Mukherjee1, Dominik Mählmann1,2
1Organic Chemistry Institute, University of Münster, Germany. b.j.ravoo@uni-muenster.de.
UV light triggers reversible vesicle aggregation in water, while green light suppresses it. This light-induced aggregation relies on host-guest interactions between cyclodextrins and a supramolecular crosslinker.
Area of Science:
- Supramolecular Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Vesicle aggregation is crucial for various applications.
- Controlling aggregation with external stimuli remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a light-responsive system for reversible vesicle aggregation.
- To utilize host-guest chemistry for supramolecular crosslinking.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized light-sensitive supramolecular crosslinkers.
- Incorporated cyclodextrins onto vesicle surfaces.
- Investigated UV and green light effects on vesicle aggregation.
Main Results:
- Achieved light-triggered reversible vesicle aggregation in water.
- Demonstrated UV light activation and green light suppression of aggregation.
- Identified host-guest interactions as the key mechanism.
Conclusions:
- Developed a novel light-controlled method for vesicle aggregation.
- The system offers precise control over supramolecular assembly.
- Potential applications in smart materials and drug delivery.
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