Molecular Machines in Lipid Bilayer Membranes

Our research group is interested in designing synthetic molecular machines which act as switches, motors, and sensors. Molecular machines are molecules, or discrete assemblies of molecules, in which nano-mechanical motion can be controlled and exploited to carry out a specific task. We are currently pioneering the development of artificial molecular machines as new stimuli-responsive components for applications in synthetic biology.

For example, we have reported a number of transmembrane molecular machines that act as photo-responsive ion transport relays by tethering a photoswitch to a phospholipid. Transmembrane ion transport is deactivated when the "telescopic arm" of the relay system is retracted by E to Z photo-isomerisation. Anion transport across the membrane is switched on when the "telescopic arm" is extended by Z to E isomerisation, and facilitated by relay molecules working cooperatively to pass ions between them (JACS, 2022; Chem. Comm., 2024, hot paper; Angew. Chem., 2025, hot paper). We have also explored the value of halogen bonding systems for improved transporter ability and increased chloride selectivity (Chem. Sci., 2023); Our current work on transmembrane molecular machines is funded by a €2 Million ERC consolidator grant RELAYMACHINES (2025-2030).