Tianjin University hosts the International Symposium on Visionary Trends in Molecular Science

Tian He an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, discussed Color-tunable Fluorescence of Single Phenazine Molecule via Vibration Induced Emission (VIE). In pursuit of design and modification of photophysical properties on the molecular level, N,N′-disubstituted-dihydrodibenzo[a,c]phenazines were demonstrated as a vivid example of elaborate manipulation via VIE, which is coined for this particular change in configuration and planarity motion.

Hanadi Sleiman, professor of chemistry and Canada Research Chair in DNA Nanoscience at McGill University, delivered a speech named "DNA Nanostructures for Cellular Delivery of Therapeutics". In her presentation, discussions were divided mainly into two aspects: DNA nanostructures for cellular delivery of therapeutics, and the function of DNA for molecular imprinting. Sleiman mentioned that the shape and size of nanomaterials determines the rate of diffusion, cell localization, toxicity, and immune response, etc. She also introduced the three main types of DNA molecules and the important role of Target Ligand in cell recognition.

Also, Professor Thomas Meade gave a presentation about his research in coordination chemistry and molecular imaging. In order to help the audience understand his concepts, he used animation to clarify the process where DNA and proteins in vivo were tested through coordination chemistry and molecular imaging. He also introduced various fields in which this technique was widely applied, including monitoring gene expression, probing the area of development, and more.

Later, Professor Keisuke Suzuki of the Tokyo Institute of Technology introduced the synthesis of natural products, taking the assembly of polyketide as an example. In the speech, theoretical and experimental analyses were performed to demonstrate the synthesis of polyketide type II, which played an important role in the development of antibiotics.

Professor Guo Xuefeng, Professor Subi Jacob George, and Professor Karen Wooley, all outstanding in the field of molecular science, delivered their speeches on molecular and polymer materials. Guo Xuefeng, professor at Peking University, presented his findings on carbon electrode-molecule junctions, making a great contribution to improving the property of electronics. Professor Subi Jacob George is a young associate of the Indian Academy of Sciences, Asian Photochemistry Association, on the Editorial Advisory Board of Chemistry of Materials, and works in New Chemistry Unit of Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR). His speech focused on Fuel-Driven Temporal Control on Supramolecular Assemblies, which helps mankind better understand the process of biological change. Karen Wooley, professor at Texas A&M University, concentrated on functional polymer materials designed for environmental remediation and sustainability. She explained that "through magnetic attraction, this material can gather and absorb a large amount of oil contaminants in the water so that the water is purified." Based on their results, a new material -- MHNs -- was designed by her team. The new material, which is made from carbohydrate, is eco-friendly, and has great significance for the protection of the environment.

Professor Liu Yunqi, an academician of the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), introduced his research regarding strong stability materials and field effect transistors. Professor Stefan Bernhard, from Carnegie Mellon University, started his speech with a joke: "The molecules I've studied are not as complicated as those mentioned by the professors before me. They are simple but of high efficiency." His research combined water decomposition with solar energy. He gave a brief introduction to the research history in this field. Then, specific principles were pulled in. In the end, he summarized the work he has completed. "Though there remains a lot to be improved" he said, "It will be a success and benefit for human beings someday."

From Feb 24 to 26, three precious days witnessed an unprecedented scientific feast. The symposium saw 28 distinguished professors and scientists from all over the world bring their prominent research of molecular science to TJU. It is not only a milestone in science, but also a breakthrough for the bright future of human kind.