The COSMO project (“COntrolled Shuttling inside artificial MOlecular tubes”) aimed to design, synthesize, and study artificial supramolecular systems capable of controlled, directional motion and selective guest transport within confined nanoscale environments. The project combined the complementary expertise of three units: the University of Bologna, responsible for the preparation and characterization of responsive molecular guests and their complexation by the molecular hosts; the University of Parma, focused on the synthesis of calix[6]arene-based cages and tubular hosts; and the University of Insubria, dedicated to molecular modeling and simulation of the dynamic host-guest systems.
The University of Insubria (UNINSUBRIA) provided crucial theoretical and computational insights, performing atomistic simulations that elucidated the energetics and mechanisms of threading/dethreading processes. Simulations of host-guest systems embedded in lipid bilayers extended the study toward biologically relevant environments, with the aim to explore molecular transport under confinement and interfacial conditions.
At the time of the present report, the project activities have led to 4 manuscripts that are either under review or will be submitted soon.
The project results have been presented in 9 communications (3 oral and 6 poster) at 8 different international and national scientific conferences. The activities of the projects have also been highlighted during two public events: the Cagliari FestivalScienza 2024 and the European Researchers Night 2025 in Bologna.
The University of Insubria (UNINSUBRIA) provided crucial theoretical and computational insights, performing atomistic simulations that elucidated the energetics and mechanisms of threading/dethreading processes. Simulations of host-guest systems embedded in lipid bilayers extended the study toward biologically relevant environments, with the aim to explore molecular transport under confinement and interfacial conditions.
At the time of the present report, the project activities have led to 4 manuscripts that are either under review or will be submitted soon.
The project results have been presented in 9 communications (3 oral and 6 poster) at 8 different international and national scientific conferences. The activities of the projects have also been highlighted during two public events: the Cagliari FestivalScienza 2024 and the European Researchers Night 2025 in Bologna.