Supramolecular fibrillation of peptide amphiphiles induces environmental responses in aqueous droplets

One-dimensional (1D) supramolecular polymers are commonly found in natural and synthetic systems to prompt functional responses that capitalise on hierarchical molecular ordering. Despite amphiphilic self-assembly being significantly studied in the context of aqueous encapsulation and autopoiesis, very little is currently known about the physico-chemical consequences and functional role of 1D supramolecular polymerisation confined in aqueous compartments. Here, we describe the different phenomena that resulted from the chemically triggered supramolecular fibrillation of synthetic peptide amphiphiles inside water microdroplets. The confined connection of suitable dormant precursors triggered a physically autocatalysed chemical reaction that resulted in functional environmental responses such as molecular uptake, fusion and chemical exchange. These results demonstrate the potential of minimalistic 1D supramolecular polymerisation to modulate the behaviour of individual aqueous entities with their environment and within communities. One-dimensional (1D) supramolecular polymers are commonly found in natural and synthetic systems but very little is currently known about the physico-chemical consequences and functional role of 1D supramolecular polymerisation confined in aqueous compartments. Here, the authors describe the different phenomena that resulted from the chemically triggered supramolecular fibrillation of synthetic peptide amphiphiles inside water microdroplets.

Automated summary

1D supramolecular polymers, commonly found in natural and synthetic systems, have been studied for their functional responses. When confined in aqueous compartments, the chemically triggered supramolecular fibrillation of synthetic peptide amphiphiles can induce molecular uptake, fusion, and chemical exchange as functional environmental responses.