Synthetic transmembrane transporters for catalytic ions

Thesis

The thesis describes the design and synthesis of photo-activated intra-vesicle catalysis systems. By regulating the transmembrane delivery process of catalytic species in response to light, photoresponsive catalysis within lipid bilayer membrane-bound systems can be achieved. This concept is demonstrated by two intra-vesicle catalysis systems: a photoresponsive transmembrane transport system for Pd(II) in combination with encapsulated water-soluble phosphine ligands, and a photo-activated delivery system for catalytic Ru complexes.

Chapter 1 introduces the field of synthetic supramolecular membrane systems and their applications in biological relevant contexts. Current progress in intracellular catalysis and the potential of synthetic supramolecular membrane systems in this area are also discussed.

Chapter 2 details a novel Pd(II) transport system and demonstrates its application in mediating catalysis within vesicles, in combination with water-soluble phosphine ligands encapsulated in the lumen.

Chapter 3 demonstrates that the Pd-induced catalysis within vesicles can be controlled by light through photocaging of the transporter introduced in Chapter 2.

Chapter 4 establishes a photoresponsive Ru catalyst capable of mediating catalysis in lipid bilayer vesicles, where the catalytic activity is initiated via light-activated transmembrane delivery.

Chapter 5 outlines the experimental procedures employed throughout the work.

Chapter 6 concludes the thesis and discusses potential topics for future investigation.

Authors: Chao, X

• DOI: 10.5287/ora-j5gro9qnp
• Type of award: DPhil
• Level of award: Doctoral
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: transmembrane ion transport; stimuli-responsive transporter; intra-vesicle catalysis
• Subjects: Supramolecular chemistry