Biological metal-organic frameworks: Structures, host-guest chemistry and bio-applications

Cai, H; Huang, YL; Li, D

Abstract

Biological metal-organic frameworks (BioMOFs) are a new class of crystalline porous materials developed in the last decade that represent a subclass of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Biomolecules introduced as components of MOFs confer biological compatibility for this emerging type of material, thus providing new opportunities for applications in biology, medicine, and a variety of other fields. In this review, to focus on host-guest chemistry and applications in biology and biochemistry, we provide an overview of recent examples of BioMOFs comprising multifunctional biomolecular ligands and transition metal ions. The bio-ligands include nucleobases, amino acids, polypeptides, proteins, cyclodextrin, porphyrin/metalloporphyrin and others. The host-guest chemistry of BioMOFs is highlighted in light of supramolecular recognition by different technologies. The potential applications of BioMOFs in several promising research fields such as drug delivery, enantioseparation and biomimetic catalysis are also summarized. In the last section, the outlook and possible challenges in advancing these research topics are illustrated. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Keywords: Biological metal-organic framework (BioMOF); Biomolecule; Host-guest chemistry; Bio-application

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Metal-organic Frameworks (MOFs) Materials

Biometal-organic frameworks (BioMOFs) represent a burgeoning area of research with vast potential applications across various fields, particularly in medicine and environmental science. BioMOFs are a subset of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) that incorporate biocompatible metals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc, making them highly suitable for biomedical applications. One of the primary uses of BioMOFs is in drug delivery, where their high porosity and large surface area allow for efficient encapsulation and controlled release of therapeutic agents. The biocompatibility of the metal ions used in BioMOFs reduces toxicity, making them ideal for in vivo applications. In cancer therapy, BioMOFs can be engineered to target tumor cells specifically, releasing chemotherapeutic drugs directly at the tumor site and minimizing systemic side effects. Additionally, BioMOFs are being explored for their potential in imaging and diagnostic applications, where their ability to be functionalized with various imaging agents enhances the detection of diseases. Beyond medicine, BioMOFs are also gaining attention in environmental applications such as water purification and gas storage, leveraging their ability to adsorb pollutants and toxic gases. The versatility and multifunctionality of BioMOFs underscore their potential to revolutionize both medical treatments and environmental management practices.