The ability to dynamically control molecular interactions is a fundamental requirement for the development of advanced functional materials, responsive molecular systems and next-generation technologies. In biological systems, molecular recognition and regulation are often achieved through reversible changes in electronic structure, enabling precise control of interactions without requiring large structural rearrangements. Translating such principles into synthetic molecular systems remains a significant challenge, particularly for controlling weak non-covalent interactions that govern processes such as molecular recognition, self-assembly, sensing and transport.
The HALO project addressed this challenge by developing light-responsive molecular platforms capable of electronically regulating halogen-based non-covalent interactions. The project explored the use of photo-switchable molecular frameworks to control the electronic properties of halogen-containing interaction sites, providing a new strategy for externally triggered modulation of supramolecular behaviour. Light was selected as an attractive stimulus because it enables remote, non-invasive and highly selective control under mild conditions.
The overall objective was to establish fundamental design principles linking photoinduced electronic changes with modulation of molecular interactions. By combining synthetic chemistry, photophysical analysis, structural characterization, solution-state studies and computational approaches, the project aimed to create a deeper understanding of how molecular electronic states can be translated into controllable intermolecular interactions. The expected long-term impact is the development of new concepts for responsive molecular materials, with potential applications in areas including molecular recognition, sensing, catalysis, transport systems and adaptive functional materials.
