Rotaxanes

Rotaxanes are complex molecules made of two or more ring-shaped structures interlinked like chain links. One ring is called the “dialkyl,” which is encased within another larger ring—the “axle.” The rings are mechanically interlocked but not covalently bonded, allowing movement relative to each other. This unique structure enables rotaxanes to act as tiny machines or switches in nanotechnology, as the rings can be shifted or manipulated to change the molecule’s behavior or properties. Their design combines stability with dynamic functionality, making them valuable in areas like drug delivery, sensors, and molecular machinery.