Core Insights - A recent collaboration between Chinese and Dutch scientists has successfully synthesized a dynamic polymer with a distinct double-helix structure, inspired by the Shanghai Tower, marking a significant advancement in biomimetic smart materials [1][2]. Research and Development - The research team, based at East China University of Science and Technology, was inspired by the unique aerodynamic stability of the Shanghai Tower, which is the tallest building in China and the third tallest in the world [1]. - The team aimed to create artificial polymers with similar geometric features and dynamic functions as natural helical polymers, which play critical roles in biological systems [1][2]. - Initial designs relied on weak interactions like hydrogen bonds, leading to structural collapse under heat or environmental changes. The breakthrough came from combining dynamic covalent bonds, particularly reversible disulfide bonds, with rigid amino acid backbones, resulting in a stable helical structure [2]. Applications and Potential - The synthesized polymer exhibits excellent mechanical flexibility, biocompatibility, and complete degradability, making it a promising candidate for next-generation wearable or implantable medical devices [2]. - Potential applications include flexible neural interfaces, targeted drug delivery systems, and tissue engineering scaffolds, which can adapt to complex mechanical environments within the body and safely metabolize after fulfilling their purpose [2]. Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering - The research highlights the importance of bridging physical laws and biological phenomena, showcasing how simple molecular building blocks can lead to complex structures and functionalities [3]. - The concept of "molecular machines" has evolved, with previous advancements in molecular motors and vehicles, which can perform tasks at the nanoscale, indicating a growing field of molecular engineering [4][5]. Future Prospects - The ongoing development of nanorobots aimed at targeted cancer cell destruction represents a significant leap in molecular medicine, although challenges remain in enhancing specificity and penetration capabilities [6]. - The integration of artificial intelligence in molecular design and automated synthesis platforms is expected to accelerate the transition of these technologies into scalable applications across various sectors, including sustainable energy, smart wearables, precision medicine, and environmental management [6].
以上海中心大厦为设计灵感,科学家首次合成具有内外双层螺旋结构的动态高分子—— “造小”的艺术,用分子构筑新材料(国际科技前沿)
Ren Min Ri Bao·2025-12-21 22:57