Constructing a molecular integrated system that can handle external cargoes courtesy of its internally organized molecular machines is a long-standing goal for synthetic chemists. Current dynamic systems, however, containing molecular machines, either operate in a disordered manner in solution or are incapable of processing external goods collectively in a condensed state. In this talk, we will describe our recent efforts aimed at the precise construction of chemically driven molecular logistics farms, where metal-organic framework nanosheets and nanoparticles function as extended stoppers, as well as coordinative organizers for arrays of artificial molecular pumps. These pumps in the solid-state farms are capable of undergoing the repeated and precise collection of cargoes with a pumping efficiency similar to that observed in solution, achieving synchronization and amplification effects in two and three dimensions. Remarkably, the molecular farms transport cargoes actively away-from-equilibrium, from a solution with 5.75 mmol/L cargoes to a condensed solid with 111 mmol/L cargoes. Moreover, the collected cargoes can be easily unloaded at a targeted location following an acid-base reaction, while the solid-state farms are recyclable for the subsequent uses. These molecular logistics farms serve as a basis for the future development of more complex molecular integrated systems with diverse functions.

Collective logistics in artificial molecular farms

ACS Fall 2021

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