Photoresponsive, reversible immobilization of virus particles on supramolecular platforms.

Here we report on the covalent attachment of photoresponsive azobenzene moieties to cowpea chlorotic mottle virus (CCMV). The modified virus capsids can be reversibly immobilized on cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) bearing surfaces via supramolecular complexation.

Versatile post-functionalization of the external shell of cowpea chlorotic mottle virus by using click chemistry.

We present the modification of the outer protein shell of cowpea chlorotic mottle virus (CCMV) with linear and strained alkyne groups. These functionalized protein capsids constitute valuable platforms for post-functionalization via click chemistry. After modification, the integrity of the capsid and the reversible disassembly behavior are preserved.