Moleculum

Moleculum is a term used in chemistry and nanotechnology to describe a specialized class of engineered molecules that combine a rigid core scaffold with multiple functional side groups arranged in a highly symmetrical pattern. The concept was first introduced by Dr. Elena Korova in 2018 as part of a project to develop self‑assembling nanostructures for targeted drug delivery. Moleculum designs typically feature a central core of either a cyclodextrin or a polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) unit, from which 12 or 24 identical ligands extend outward in a <i>sp^3</i> or <i>sp^2</i> arrangement. The ligands are often conjugated to bioactive molecules, fluorescent tags, or metal chelating groups, allowing the overall structure to act as a versatile platform for multivalent interactions.

Key properties of moleculum compounds include high thermal stability, defined size (generally 2–4 nanometres in diameter), and the ability to self‑assemble into larger supramolecular architectures such as capsules, gels, or regular lattices. Their symmetry grants uniform binding sites which can be exploited for cooperative ligand binding, enhancing affinity and specificity for target biomolecules. In addition, the rigid core protects attached functional groups from metabolic degradation, improving pharmacokinetic profiles in biological systems.

Despite early promise, moleculum research remains largely experimental. Peer­reviewed studies have mainly focused on proof‑of‑concept demonstrations of self‑assembly and drug conjugation, with limited in vivo data. Current challenges include scalable synthesis, controlling heterogeneity in ligand attachment, and ensuring biocompatibility. Nevertheless, the concept of moleculum continues to attract interest from researchers exploring multivalent therapeutics, nanoscale sensors, and materials science, suggesting a potential pathway toward novel applications in medicine and nanofabrication.