Abstract
Although natural dual-ion exchangers are indispensable for bio-organic functions, developing their artificial counterparts remains nearly unexplored. Herein, this work proposes a novel light-controlled K+/Na+-transport-exchanger TE12, realizing an unprecedented reversible switch between K+- and Na+-transmembrane transport by changing its transport mechanism (channel and carrier). The conformational transformation of the azobenzene moiety in TE12 essentially induces this. The K+/Na+ selectivity of K+-channel Trans-TE12 is as high as 20.3, making it one of the most selective artificial K+-transporters. Moreover, considering the scarcity of artificial Na+-transporters, the Na+-carrier Cis-TE12 with high Na+/K+ selectivity (9.25) represents a breakthrough. Cis-TE12 significantly triggers cell apoptosis by igniting fascinating “Na+ sparks” first observed on cancer cells treated with synthetic channels, while K+-channel Trans-TE12 exhibits low toxicity. Importantly, TE12 can function as a spatiotemporally controllable ion interference therapy, enabling in situ 365 nm light-triggered and 450 nm light-inhibited cell death. This work realizes sophisticated functions in a simplified structure by the “Less is More” design concept. It opens a shortcut toward the future iterative updating of artificial ion transporters to make them better biological analogs and therapeutic agents.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 2400432 |
Journal | Advanced Functional Materials |
Volume | 34 |
Issue number | 29 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 13 Feb 2024 |
Keywords
- K/Na-exchanger
- high selectivity
- ion interference therapy
- ion transporters
- photo-controlled
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
- General Chemistry
- Condensed Matter Physics
- General Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Biomaterials