| The work reported in this thesis is focused on various synthetic ion channels. A broad range of successful approaches has been realized in the design and characterization of synthetic ionophores. Studies in this area promise a better understanding of supramolecular interactions, membrane interactions, and ultimately the development of novel pharmaceuticals for diseases and ailments involving impaired channel function. As new structures are designed and reported, it is important not only to demonstrate function, but also to correlate function to dynamics, self-assembly, and supramolecular membrane interactions.;In this thesis, two distinct groups of amphiphilic synthetic anion transporters (SATs) are presented. Their transport abilities were assessed with vesicle release experiments and planar bilayer conduction experiments. Characterization of supramolecular interactions involved in aggregation, membrane insertion, and interfacial monolayer stability employed an array of analytical techniques including dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, Langmuir trough experiments, and Brewster angle microscopy. |
