Blockable Zn₁₀L₁₅ Ion Channels through Subcomponent Self‐Assembly

Abstract

Metal-organic anion channels based on Zn₁₀ L₁₅ pentagonal prisms have been prepared by subcomponent self-assembly. The insertion of these prisms into lipid membranes was investigated by ion-current and fluorescence measurements. The channels were found to mediate the transport of Cl^- anions through planar lipid bilayers and into vesicles. Tosylate anions were observed to bind and plug the central channels of the prisms in the solid state and in solution. In membranes, dodecyl sulfate blocked chloride transport through the central channel. Our Zn₁₀ L₁₅ prism thus inserts into lipid bilayers to turn on anion transport, which can then be turned off through addition of the blocker dodecyl sulfate.