Visible‐Light‐Controlled Azobenzene‐Cyclodextrin Host‐Guest Interactions for Biomedical Applications and Surface Functionalization

Abstract

AbstractAzobenzene/cyclodextrin (CD) host‐guest complexes can dissociate and reform under light irradiation because of photoisomerization of azobenzene. Azobenzene/CD host‐guest interactions have been used to construct photo‐controlled supramolecular systems. However, typical azobenzene/CD host‐guest interactions are controlled using UV light that may damage organic and biological components. To broaden the applications of this type of supramolecular construct, visible‐light‐responsive azobenzene/CD host‐guest interactions have received growing attention in recent years. In this Concept, the host‐guest interactions of visible‐light‐responsive azobenzene derivatives with CDs and their applications are reviewed. In particular, the advantages of visible‐light‐responsive azobenzene/CD systems for biomedical applications and surface functionalization are discussed, such as photo‐controlled release, photoswitchable surfaces, and orthogonal supramolecular micropatterned surfaces. Challenges and perspectives for the field are summarized and discussed.