This Collection aims to bring together the latest research on mechanically interlocked molecules, including with respect to their design, construction, ...

Achieving unidirectional molecular movement is a major challenge, often requiring molecular ratchets. Here, we exploit the unique 3D structure and selective functionalization of cyclodextrin to achieve unidirectional motion in a rotaxane system. The cyclodextrin enables one-way gate opening and promotes forward movement via a double-gated ratchet mechanism. These findings pave the way for more efficient rotary molecular motors in cyclic systems and could enable long-range translational motion at the molecular scale.