Reversible Stimuli-Responsive Transmembrane Ion Transport using Phenylhydrazone-Based Photoswitches

Abstract

Phenylhydrazone-based synthetic receptors are reported as stimuli‒responsive anion transporters. The X-ray crystallographic studies confirmed the preorganized anion binding E ‒state and closed non-binding Z ‒state. The detailed ion transport mechanistic studies confirmed Cl ‒ /X ‒ exchange as the primary ion transport process. Their light-stimulated E to Z isomerization led to a substantial decrease in the ion transport activity across the lipid bilayer membrane. Reversible ‘OFF’ and ‘ON’ activity switching was studied by light and acid, respectively.