Dynamic Microcompartments Drive Adaptation, Catalysis, and Assembly Changes in Constitutional Dynamic Networks

Area of Science:

• Systems chemistry
• Supramolecular chemistry
• Chemical self-assembly

Background:

• Microcompartments are crucial for organizing molecular systems and enabling function.
• Understanding the selection mechanisms driving microcompartment formation is key to systems chemistry.
• Dynamic covalent chemistry offers a platform for studying self-assembly and emergent properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate selection mechanisms in micellar formation using dynamic covalent imine bonds.
• To explore how microcompartments stabilize their constituents and lead to functional states.
• To demonstrate the emergence of catalysis and structural organization in self-assembling systems.

Main Methods:

• Utilized combinatorial libraries based on dynamic covalent imine bonds.
• Investigated micellar formation and the stability of imine-based surfactants.
• Analyzed self-selection processes and the impact of molecular diversity on assembly behavior.

Main Results:

• Micelles were shown to protect imine-based surfactants from hydrolysis via generated microenvironments.
• A self-selection process was identified, stabilizing micellar components and reinforcing robustness.
• Increased molecular diversity led to emergent behaviors, including the mimicry of hydrolase activity and structural changes.

Conclusions:

• Dynamic covalent imine bonds provide a model for studying microcompartment emergence and selection rules.
• Self-selection mechanisms within micelles enhance stability and promote functional organization.
• This work offers insights into the design principles for creating complex, functional self-assembling systems.