The supramolecular redox functions of metallomacromolecules

Abstract

Abstract Metallomacromolecules are frequently encountered in redox proteins including metal-tanned hide collagen and play crucial roles involving supramolecular properties in biological electron-transfer processes. They are also currently found in non-natural families, such as: metallopolymers, metallodendrimers and metallodendronic polymers. This mini-review discusses the supramolecular redox functions of such nanomaterials developed in our research group. Electron-transfer processes are first examined in mono-, bis- and hexa-nuclear ferrocenes and other electron-reservoir organoiron systems showing the influence of supramolecular and reorganization aspects on their mechanism. Then applications of electron-transfer processes using these same organoiron redox systems in metallomacromolecules and their supramolecular functions are discussed including redox recognition/sensing, catalysis templates, electrocatalysis, redox catalysis, molecular machines, electrochromes, drug delivery device and nanobatteries. Graphical Abstract

Keywords

• Ferrocene, electron reservoir
• Polymer
• Dendrimer
• Redox catalyst
• Redox sensor
• Molecular machine