Expanding the Horizons of Nanotechnology: A Novel Nanomaterial Developed by Researchers Holds Immense Promise

At the University of Missouri, a team of scientists has engineered a nanocapsule designed for precise delivery of substances, offering significant possibilities in the medical and scientific arenas. This breakthrough, drawing inspiration from the structure of gecko feet, marks a significant leap in the field of supramolecular chemistry. It holds the promise of revolutionizing the way nutrients and drugs are administered in biological systems. (Illustrative concept)

The University of Missouri’s innovative design of a nanomaterial could herald new applications in the realms of science and medicine.

In their latest research, the university’s scientists have introduced a prototype of a nanocapsule – a tiny container – capable of transporting specific materials to designated areas.

Although this study doesn’t encompass all potential applications, the innovation could be a game-changer in administering various substances, such as drugs and nutrients, in humans and plants. According to Gary Baker, an associate professor in the Chemistry Department and a co-author of the study, the innovation lies in the unique structure of this small-scale delivery system.

Distinctive Structure and Possible Uses

Baker explains, “We can consistently produce these nanocapsules in a uniform manner by connecting them with calcium metal ions, serving as the foundational elements. This method allows for the creation of multiple identical chambers capable of carrying diverse substances or payloads. We also have evidence that these substances can move from inside the nanocapsules to an external solution.”

Analogy with Natural Phenomena

Baker likens the assembly process of this novel device to the way geckos climb walls.

“The feet of geckos have tiny structures, which in turn have even smaller components, going down to nearly the nanoscale level,” says Baker. “These myriad substructures, when they interact with a surface, provide a gecko with stable traction. Similarly, our nanocapsules are held together by a series of weak chemical interactions that collectively create a strong force, guiding the assembly of the final structure.”

Progress in Supramolecular Chemistry

This research is a notable advancement in supramolecular chemistry, as highlighted by Jerry Atwood, a Curators’ Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Chemistry and a renowned expert in the field.

“Although we used fluorescent molecules as a reference, their size and function are analogous to those molecules one might use for targeted substance delivery,” Atwood remarks. “Thus, our success underscores its potential for future scientific and medical applications.”

The discovery was made by Kanishka Sikligar, a postdoctoral fellow at MU. Sikligar, who joined MU to work with Atwood, was astonished by the team’s finding.

“These nanocapsules are significantly larger than what has been achieved in this domain before,” Sikligar notes. “I am eager to see how this breakthrough furthers our understanding and knowledge in this field.”

Citation: “Nanocapsules of unprecedented internal volume seamed by calcium ions” by Kanishka Sikligar, Steven P. Kelley, Durgesh V. Wagle, Piyuni Ishtaweera, Gary A. Baker, and Jerry L. Atwood, 3 July 2023, Chemical Science.
DOI: 10.1039/D3SC01629C

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