Reversible folding/unfolding of linear molecular strands into helical channel-like complexes upon proton-modulated binding and release of metal ions

The binding of appropriate metal ions to linear ligand strands obtained by hydrazone polycondensations generates channel-like complexes by reversible coiling of the ligand, thus allowing the generation of ion-induced, acid-base neutralisation fuelled, molecular nanomechanical contraction/extension motions of large amplitude.