Formation of Photoresponsive Vesicular Molecular Assemblies from a Complexes of Cinnamic Acid Derivative and Cyclodextrin

Abstract We attempted to construct naturally derived and colorless, photoresponsive molecular assemblies. Inclusion complexes of cinnamic acid derivatives and β-cyclodextrin formed pseudo-surfactants, leading to the formation of photoresponsive multilamellar vesicles. Furthermore, we found that the chain length and number of alkyl groups introduced into the cinnamic acid derivatives influence the formation of vesicle-like structures. The vesicle-like molecular assemblies hold promise for applications as drug carriers and in cosmetics.