In this Primer Review, the topic of molecular photochromism is introduced and fundamental concepts expounded, which should enable researchers interested in the field. Additionally, a history of the development of the area is given which provides perspective on how a field develops. Moreover, key photochromic molecules and selected applications are showcased to provide the interested reader with an entry to this fascinating field of science and emerging technology. (Image credit: David Jago.)

The marine cone snail Conus victoriae produces a peptide, Vc1.1, which has potent pain killing activity and is a valuable lead in the design of novel analgesics. (Image credit: Meng-Wei Kan.)

This Account serves to introduce the world of protein cages to a chemical audience and highlight the many similarities to concepts from supramolecular chemistry, revealing how a knowledge base in chemistry can provide the foundation for valuable insights into fundamental questions and biomolecular engineering challenges in the field of physical virology. (Image credit: Yu Heng Lau.)

Thin films of two poly(dendrimer)s differing in conjugation length, steric bulk and surface groups were studied for the detection of trace quantities of nitro-based taggant and explosive vapours. Addition of first-generation biphenyl-based dendrons led to a decrease in mass density, an increase in analyte sorption and improved detection. (Image credit: Paul L. Burn.)

Three iridium(III) metalloligands containing different cyclometallating ligands were incorporated into Ca²⁺ metal–organic frameworks yielding luminescent materials. Changing the cyclometalling ligand altered the emission wavelength, highlighting the utility of this approach for the generation of tailored solid-state materials for applications including chemical sensing. (Image credit: C. Hua and T. U. Connell.)

A proof-of-concept method has been developed to detect perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS). A coloured porphyrin host molecule suspended in micelles changes colour when it encounters PFOS. Photographs of the coloured solutions were analysed allowing for the detection of PFOS in water at concentrations as low as 3 ppm.

A scalable methodology that allows particles based on trialkoxy siloxanes with non-polar substituents to be synthesised in a one-pot reaction through the controlled addition of the reactants is reported. By dispersing the trialkoxy silane precursor prior to addition to the reaction solution, excellent control of particle size and dispersity can be achieved for systems not normally compatible with Stober methods.