Photoresponsive transformation from spherical to nanotubular assemblies: anticancer drug delivery using macrocyclic cationic gemini amphiphiles

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We developed NIR-light-responsive macrocyclic cationic gemini amphiphiles, one of which displayed various favorable properties of lipids. The NIR-light-mediated cleavage of the strained dioxacycloundecine ring led to the conversion of the spherical to a nanotubular self-assembly in the aqueous medium. This photo-mediated transformation from the spherical to nanotubular self-assembly resulted in the release of encapsulated hydrophobic anticancer drug molecule doxorubicin (Dox) in a controlled manner. The potent cationic gemini amphiphile also displayed lower cytotoxicity and efficient NIR-light-mediated Dox release efficacy to cancerous cells.