Mixed host co-assembled systems for broad-scope analyte sensing

Here we report a systems chemistry oriented approach for developing information-rich mixed host chemosensors. We show that co-assembling macrocyclic hosts from different classes, DimerDye sulfonatocalix[4]arenes and cucurbit[n]urils, effectively increases the scope of analyte binding interactions and therefore, sensory outputs. This simple dynamic strategy exploits cross-reactive noncovalent host–host complexation interactions while integrating a reporter dye, thereby producing emergent photophysical responses when an analyte interacts with either host. We first demonstrate the advantages of mixed host co-assembled chemosensors through an increased detection range of hydrophobic, cationic, neutral, and anionic drugs. We then implement mixed host sensors in an array-based platform for the differentiation of illicit drugs, including cannabinoids, benzodiazepine analogs, opiates, anesthetics, amphetamine, and common adulterating substances. Finally, the potential of this approach is applied to profiling real-world multi-component illicit street drug samples, proving to be more effective than classical sensor arrays.