Xujin Qin, Zhen Zhang, Jianlei Han, Xuefeng Yang, Xue Jin, Dong Yang, Pengfei Duan
2026.2.17CHIRALITY
Abstract
Chirality transfer from molecules to supramolecular architectures underpins diverse biological and material functions, yet constructing helical heterojunctions remains a formidable challenge. Here, we report the discovery of nanoscale helical junctions directed by a molecular chiral junction derived from a meso-form lipid emitter with two heterochiral centers. Unlike enantiopure molecules, which assemble into uniform homochiral fibers, the meso-form molecule self-assembles into planar belts in pure DMSO and striking helical heterojunctions with opposite-handed portions in DMSO/H2O 9:1 (v/v). Spectroscopic and structural analyses reveal that solvent polarity and stereochemical configuration govern distinct packing modes and hierarchical chirality amplification. This unprecedented molecular-to-supramolecular transformation provides a new paradigm for chirality engineering, offering mechanistic insights into chiral self-assembly and opening opportunities for advanced chiroptical materials.
Citation format
QIN, Xujin, et al. Nanoscale helical heterojunctions from a π-conjugated emitter with two heterochiral centers. CHIRALITY, 2026, 38 3(3): e70089.