We caught up with Xueze Zhao from The Stoddart Group at Hong Kong University to chat about their Mechanostereochemistry research and how the group are using their FS5 Spectrofluorometer to support their projects.

Professor Sir Fraser Stoddart, Nobel Laureate whom the group was named after, is one of the few scientists in recent decades to have created a new research area – Mechanostereochemistry – but what does that mean?

What is Mechanostereochemistry?

Mechanostereochemistry describes a relatively new field of chemistry that embraces many aspects of mechanically interlocked molecules (MIMs). Zhao explained “MIMs are two or more covalently linked components are held together by mechanical bonds. Mechanostereochemistry studies their syntheses, properties, topologies where relevant and functions where operative.”

How does the Stoddart Group use the FS5 in their research?

In their lab, the Stoddart group has an Edinburgh Instruments FS5 Spectrofluorometer. Zhao details the different ways the group uses the FS5 in their work:

“We use our FS5 Spectrofluorometer for three main reasons:

1. Sensitive Detection of Molecular Changes
   This can be split into two different functions – Fluorescence Monitoring and Real-Time Analysis. For fluorescence monitoring, we use the spectrofluorometer to detect changes in fluorescence intensity and wavelength, which can indicate alterations in the molecular structure, environment, or interactions. Real-Time Analysis allows for live monitoring of dynamic processes, such as the folding and unfolding of molecular machines or the release of drugs from delivery systems.
2. Characterisation of Supramolecular Structures
   Analysing fluorescence spectra gives us insights into the arrangement and interaction of molecules within supramolecular assemblies.
3. Quantitative Analysis
   Concentration measurements allow us to precisely quantify fluorescent species – this is essential for understanding concentration-dependent behaviours, and for calibrating experimental setups.”

The Stoddart group has taken advantage of the different options and upgrades available for the FS5 – their instrument includes nanosecond fluorescence lifetime capability, integrating sphere, kinetics accessory, low-temperature sample holder, and extended spectral range.

Members of the Stoddart Group at Hong Kong University learning how to use their FS5 Spectrofluorometer.

“The different features allow the FS5 to support various research initiatives across multiple projects in the group. Its comprehensive capabilities make it suitable for diverse applications, from fundamental studies to applied research. We can leverage its advanced features to investigate a wide array of mechanostereochemical phenomena, ensuring that the instrument is in constant use for different experimental needs.”

The FS5 stands out to the Stoddart group because of its comprehensive design, high sensitivity, advanced lifetime measurement capabilities, wide spectral range, and flexibility. These features make it an invaluable tool for a wide range of research applications.

“The [FS5’s] ability to support complex and detailed studies, combined with [Edinburgh Instruments’] strong reputation and support, ensures that the FS5 can meet the demanding needs of cutting-edge scientific research.”

The Future of Mechanostereochemistry

Looking to the future of mechanostereochemsitry, the field is at a crossroads.

“We now have a much better understanding of how to design and control molecular motion and generally (at least, theoretically) understand how to translate this motion into useful applications. However, we still do not fully know how to integrate molecular systems with each other and with the outside world to achieve the complexity found in nature. There are so many new ideas and theories. Development of new switchable systems and motors, and the growing interest from different disciplines, one thing is certain: exciting times lie ahead!”

Thank you to Xueze Zhao for taking the time to work with us on this blog. You can read more about the Stoddart Group’s research on their website: The Stoddart Group.

We are saddened by the death of Professor Sir Fraser Stoddart at the end of 2024. We are very grateful for his work and the legacy his research leaves. His groundbreaking research has made a huge impact in our understanding of supramolecules molecular development of molecular machines. We are proud to have played a part in his research and wish the best to his group, and the many scientists whom he inspired, who will continue to develop the pioneering research that began with Sir Stoddart.

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