Synthetic Ion Channel Based on Metal–Organic Polyhedra

Abstract

MOPping up ions: A synthetic ion channel formed with MOP-18 transports protons and alkali-metal ions across lipid membranes. Homogeneous, long-lived single-channel currents were observed in planar lipid bilayer experiments. The MOP-18 channel prefers cations over anions, and the cation selectivity is in the order Li+≫Na+>K+>Rb+>Cs+. This system is promising for applications such as sensors and catalysis. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2002/2008/z802240_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.