Cyclodextrins-amphiphile molecules supramolecular self-assemblies: Mechanisms, characterization, and applications in advanced functional materials

Cyclodextrins and their derivatives (CDs) have become ideal host for constructing various self-assemblies due to their unique external hydrophilic and internal hydrophobic cavities. The primary supramolecular inclusion complexes (ICs) fabricated by CDs and amphiphilic molecules are able to further self-assemble into different high-order supramolecular self-assemblies with more complex structure and more diverse functions under various non-covalent interactions. Hence, in-depth understanding of the assembly mechanisms & modulating factors of amphiphilic molecules-CDs ICs and supramolecular self-assemblies (aggregates) as well as multiscale characterization methodologies is crucial for the design, construction, and application of novel CDs-based functional materials. Therefore, this paper systematically reviewed the latest research progress in supramolecular aggregates of CDs and amphiphilic molecules, and the influences of host, guest, and auxiliaries on the host-guest interaction and supramolecular aggregation were mainly discussed. Moreover, the relevant characterization methods of CDs-based supramolecular aggregates and their potential application prospect in different fields were also reviewed. Finally, the limitations and possible countermeasures of the current research on CDs-based supramolecular aggregates were briefly sorted out, in order to provide guidance for scientific research and practical applications in the field of CDs-based supramolecular self-assemblies.