Self-Assembled Supramolecular Materials for Substrate Transport by External Stimuli

Substrate transport within biological tissues is diverse, with the most fundamental process being transport across cell membranes, which plays a crucial role in sustaining life. In this study, an artificial substrate transport system based on hydrogels by utilizing molecular recognition and stimuli-responsive substrates is developed. α- and β-Cyclodextrins are selected as host molecules, while adamantane serves as the guest molecule, enabling the adhesion of two hydrogels through self-assembly. Under light stimulation, the light-responsive dye, azobenzene derivative, is transported between the two hydrogels. This research provides new insights into the development of light-controlled substance transport systems, which can be applied to biological substance delivery and the creation of smart materials.