Rotary and linear molecular motors driven by pulses of a chemical fuel

Acid fuels the motion of a threaded ring A central goal in the construction of molecular-scale machines is the efficient achievement of one-way motion. Erbas-Cakmak et al. developed a class of machines that transmit pH changes into the two-stage guided motion of molecular rings threaded on a linear or cyclic axle. The design relies on temporary blocking groups and landing sites along the axle that toggle between active and passive states in response to acid or base. Trichloroacetic acid initiates the first stage of motion until it is decomposed by base in the solution, spurring the second phase. Science , this issue p. 340