The Macromolecular, Supramolecular and Nanochemistry (MSN) Program supports the work of Professor Eugene Pinkhassik of the University of Memphis focusing on regulating the transport of small molecules through gated nanopores and creating nanocapsules capable of rapid uptake and release of small molecules. The transport will be regulated by controlling chemical environment of nanopores and by reversible binding of plugs or lids. New nanometer-thin materials with gated transport will be used to fabricate functional devices suitable for applications in existing fields such as delivery of drugs or imaging agents and for enabling new technologies.
New materials with programmable properties will be useful in biomedical, biotechnology, and environmental applications. Devices capable of rapid catch and release of bioactive molecules are likely to make diagnosis and targeted therapy more efficient. This interdisciplinary project integrates research and training with outreach activities aimed at underrepresented groups in science and engineering.
