A [2]Pseudorotaxane‐Based Molecular Machine: Reversible Formation of a Molecular Loop Driven by Electrochemical and Photochemical Stimuli

Abstract

Picking up the thread: A large, reversible change in size as well as shape is observed in a [2]pseudorotaxane-based molecular machine composed of cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]; bead) and a hexamethylene-bridged bisviologen (thread, see schematic representation) on application of external stimuli. The key feature of the machinelike behavior is the reversible formation of a molecular loop by intramolecular pairing of the terminal viologen radical cation units inside CB[8] upon electrochemical or photochemical reduction. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2002/2003/z51925_s.pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.