Dual-controlled nanoparticles exhibiting AND logic

Abstract

Dual-controlled nanoparticles (DCNPs) are synthesized by attaching two different types of molecular machines, light-responsive nanoimpellers and pH-responsive nanovalves, to different regions of mesoporous silica nanoparticles. Nanoimpellers are based on azobenzene derivatives that are tethered to the nanopore interiors, while nanovalves are based on [2]pseudorotaxanes that are tethered to the nanoparticle surfaces. The different molecular machines operate through separate mechanisms to control the release of guest molecules that are loaded into the nanopores. When used in conjunction with one another, a sophisticated controllable release system behaving as an AND logic gate is obtained.