LAUSR

Abstract We report the self-assembly of two α-cyclodextrin-derived unconventional amphiphiles containing a ferrocence and a ferrocenium terminal group (Fc-EG-αCD and Fc+-EG-αCD), respectively. Fc-EG-αCD was synthesized and then oxidized giving the oxidized state molecule Fc+-EG-αCD. The self-assembly behaviors of the molecules were investigated by several complementary techniques including TEM observations, DLS and other spectral measurements. Vesicles were formed in both systems. However, they adopted different molecular arrangements due to the varied electric properties of Fc and Fc+. Moreover, the reversibility of the redox-responsive self-assembly was successfully achieved. Our results enriches the self-assembly systems based on CD derivatives and provides a new route for the fabrication of more stimuli-responsive amphiphilic self-assemblies.