Setting a direction for molecular motors

Nature Chemistry, Published online: 02 July 2026; doi:10.1038/s41557-026-02205-7Molecules capable of undergoing a 360° rotation around a central axis have the potential to drive movement and function in nanoscale machines. This issue collects several articles showcasing advances, and discussing future challenges, in the field of rotary molecular motors.

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Driving movement in the field of molecular machines

Nature Chemistry, Published online: 02 July 2026; doi:10.1038/s41557-026-02210-wTo mark the 10th anniversary of his Nobel Prize for the design of molecular machines, Ben Feringa talks to Nature Chemistry about his career, his research on molecular motors and photoswitches, and his advice to young researchers.

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Wavelength-steered directional rotation in an autonomous light-driven molecular motor - Nature Chemistry

The rational design of autonomous light-powered molecular motors remains a formidable challenge in nanoscience. Now, a photochemically driven diazene-based rotary motor has been shown to rotate around...

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Autonomous Artificial Molecular Motors and Pumps

Autonomous energy consumption is the only way to introduce molecular motors into more sophisticated, larger systems, capable of life-like behavior. We reviewed a selection of the most recent advances...

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