Covalent Organic Framework Cladding on Peptide-Amphiphile-Based Biomimetic Catalysts

Peptide-based biomimetic catalysts are promising materials for efficient catalytic activity in various biochemical transformations. However, their lack of operational stability and fragile nature in non-aqueous media limit their practical applications. In this study, we have developed a cladding technique to stabilize biomimetic catalysts within porous covalent organic framework (COF) scaffolds. This methodology allows for the homogeneous distribution of peptide nanotubes inside the COF (TpAzo and TpDPP) backbone, creating strong noncovalent interactions that prevent leaching. We synthesized two different peptide-amphiphiles, C10FFVK and C10FFVR, with lysine (K) and arginine (R) at the C-termini, respectively, which formed nanotubular morphologies. The C10FFVK peptide-amphiphile nanotubes exhibit enzyme-like behavior and efficiently catalyze C–C bond cleavage in a buffer medium (pH 7.5). We produced nanotubular structures of TpAzo–C10FFVK and TpDPP–C10FFVK through COF cladding by using interfacial crystallization (IC). The peptide nanotubes encased in the COF catalyze C–C bond cleavage in a buffer medium as well as in different organic solvents (such as acetonitrile, acetone, and dichloromethane). The TpAzo–C10FFVK catalyst, being heterogeneous, is easily recoverable, enabling the reaction to be performed for multiple cycles. Additionally, the synthesis of TpAzo–C10FFVK thin films facilitates catalysis in flow. As control, we synthesized another peptide-amphiphile, C10FFVR, which also forms tubular assemblies. By depositing TpAzo COF crystallites on C10FFVR nanotubes through IC, we produced TpAzo–C10FFVR nanotubular structures that expectedly did not show catalysis, suggesting the critical role of the lysines in the TpAzo–C10FFVK.