Smart Supramolecular Scaffolds: From Molecular Recognition to Biological Function

Dear Colleagues,

Supramolecular scaffolds have emerged as powerful platforms for creating dynamic, adaptive, and multifunctional systems through the precise organization of molecular components via non-covalent interactions. By harnessing molecular recognition, self-assembly, host–guest chemistry, hydrogen bonding, π–π stacking interactions, and other supramolecular interactions, these scaffolds enable the construction of smart materials with tunable structures and responsive behaviors. Recent advances have expanded their applications across chemistry, materials science, biotechnology, and medicine, particularly in drug delivery, tissue engineering, biosensing, bioimaging, catalysis, and regenerative therapies.

This Special Issue aims to highlight the latest developments in the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of smart supramolecular scaffolds that bridge fundamental molecular recognition processes with biological function. We welcome original research articles, communications, and reviews covering innovative supramolecular architectures, stimuli-responsive systems, biomimetic assemblies, functional nanomaterials, and hybrid materials for biological and biomedical applications. Contributions addressing mechanistic insights, structure–function relationships and computational approaches are also encouraged.

By bringing together interdisciplinary research from chemists, materials scientists, biologists, and biomedical engineers, this Special Issue seeks to advance our understanding of how supramolecular design principles can be leveraged to create next-generation functional systems for healthcare, diagnostics, and sustainable technologies.

Prof. Dr. Shin Aoki
Dr. Martin Ross Johnston
Guest Editors

Dr. Ivana Nikšić-Franjić
Guest Editor Assistant

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