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What is a molecular machine?

1 May 2025

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A new project aims to define the key terms used in the field of molecular machines. It is hoped that the new definitions will allow researchers to avoid semantic debates, and could help provide clarity in any future legal battles involving the technology.

See NEWS piece “Molecular machines won a Nobel prize nine years ago, but we still can’t decide what one is‘ by Jamie Durrani , Chemistry World, 29 April 2025

Stories from Chemistry World

What do you think a molecular machine is?

The task group (2024-004-2-100) would like to hear from you. They’ve created a series of thought experiments that they’d like answers to, as well as a poll. You can also submit your comments on efforts to define a molecular machine at the 2025 International Symposium of Macrocyclic and Supramolecular Chemistry in Kyoto, Japan, as well as the 2025 Gordon Research Conference on Molecular Machines in Action in New London, New Hampshire, US.

Read OPINION piece ‘Molecular machines: terminology in turmoil‘ by Ivan Aprahamian, Dean Astumian, Carson Bruns, Stephen Goldup, Pierangelo Metrangolo and Daisy Pooler, in Chemistry World, 29 April 2025

_{featured img by Mikkel Juul Jensen/Science Photo Library}

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