Abstract
We report a facile strategy for engineering diverse particles based on the supramolecular assembly of natural polyphenols and a self-polymerizable aromatic dithiol. In aqueous conditions, uniform and size-tunable supramolecular particles are assembled through π–π interactions as mediated by polyphenols. Owing to the high binding affinity of phenolic motifs present at the surface, these particles allow for the subsequent deposition of various materials (i.e., organic, inorganic, and hybrid components), producing a variety of monodisperse functional particles. Moreover, the solvent-dependent disassembly of the supramolecular networks enables their removal, generating a wide range of corresponding hollow structures including capsules and yolk–shell structures. The versatility of these supramolecular networks, combined with their negligible cytotoxicity provides a pathway for the rational design of a range of particle systems (including core–shell, hollow, and yolk–shell) with potential in biomedical and environmental applications.
Highlights
We report a facile strategy for engineering diverse particles based on the supramolecular assembly of natural polyphenols and a self-polymerizable aromatic dithiol
Experimental work combined with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations show that in aqueous conditions, the presence of polyphenols facilitates the controlled self-assembly of polymerized BDT via π–π interactions, producing surface TA-stabilized pBDT supramolecular particles ranging in size from ~50 to 650 nm
The primary advantage of the reported assembly method is that uniform, adherent supramolecular particles can be synthesized by mixing BDT and TA in bicine buffer at ambient temperature
Summary
We report a facile strategy for engineering diverse particles based on the supramolecular assembly of natural polyphenols and a self-polymerizable aromatic dithiol. Experimental work combined with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations show that in aqueous conditions, the presence of polyphenols facilitates the controlled self-assembly of polymerized BDT (pBDT) via π–π interactions, producing surface TA-stabilized pBDT supramolecular particles (pBDT–TA) ranging in size from ~50 to 650 nm. Supramolecular particles with larger diameters (>150 nm) were prepared by repeating the assembly process around the pBDT–TA seeds (Fig. 2b and Supplementary Fig. 3).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
