Biomimetic NaK Channel Membrane Enabled by a Crown Ether‐Coordinated Metal–Organic Framework

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Authors: Chen Zhao, Na Li, Sijia Shi, Jue Hou, Li Juan Gao, Benny D. Freeman, Huanting Wang, Huacheng Zhang
Cited by: 0
References: 61

Abstract

Abstract Biological NaK channels integrate exquisite ion selectivity with dynamic gating to regulate life processes, yet achieving such multifunctionality in synthetic channels has remained a formidable challenge. Here, we present a metal–organic framework (MOF) channel membrane that combines two complementary ion‐conduction motifs: carboxyl groups from UiO‐66‐COOH and carboxybenzo‐15‐crown‐5 (15C5‐COOH), assembled in a one‐step coordination strategy. This hybrid architecture recapitulates essential NaK channel functions, offering both ultrahigh ion selectivity and controllable gating. The membrane enables highly selective conduction of monovalent cations while effectively excluding Mg 2+ , yielding M + /Mg 2+ selectivity above 10 2 . Under mixed‐ion conditions, it achieves unprecedented Na⁺/K⁺ selectivity exceeding 10 3 , far surpassing reported artificial ion channels. Remarkably, Mg 2+ ions dynamically gate Na⁺ and K⁺ transport with sustainable on–off ratios around 30. These outstanding performances arise from the synergistic interplay of crown ether and carboxyl groups confined within subnanometer MOF pores. This work establishes a versatile strategy for designing multifunctional artificial ion channels, opening avenues toward advanced ionic devices for artificial cells and biomedical technologies.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Metal-Organic Frameworks: Synthesis and Applications Molecular Sensors and Ion Detection Chemical Synthesis and Characterization

Publication details

Journal / source
Angewandte Chemie
Volume
138
Issue
7
Publication date
10 January 2026
Language
EN