Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Molecular recognition allows living systems to convert chemical information into physical behavior. Synthetic active matter lacks an analogous mechanism by which chemical information modulates phoretic interactions, which are determined instead by physicochemical properties. Here, we harness host-guest chemistry within coordination cages to enable the transduction of molecular recognition into non-equilibrium responses. We employ guest molecules as chemical signals which tune a tracer’s zeta potential upon binding within cages adsorbed to the particle interface. Phoretic mobility of these tracers is controlled via ionic diffusiophoresis. Experiments across multiple guests reveal a direct relationship between binding affinity, surface potential, and interaction sign, i.e. convergence toward or divergence away from the center of a gradient. We also present a predictive theoretical framework that quantitatively maps guest properties onto the sign and magnitude of phoretic interactions. These results establish molecular recognition as a chemical code for modulating interactions in active matter.
Source: ChemRxiv
Language: English
Topic: Micro and Nano Robotics
Subfield: Condensed Matter Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7213970115