Molecular machines as a driving force of progress in modern post-industrial society

Abstract

The review considers main advances achieved in recent years in a fairly old and simultaneously modern field of research, controlled motion at the molecular level and its practical transformation in the form of synthetic molecular machines and devices. The basic principles of the design and controlled linear and rotational motion in such molecular systems and various useful functions potentially inherent in synthetic molecular machines have been discussed. Examples of already implemented molecular rotors, shuttles, switches, transporters, and muscles are given. Finally, immediate and more distant prospects for the development of this fascinating and very important field of nanotechnology are presented.