Novel Supramolecular Architectures—Catenanes, Rotaxanes, and Knots

2 Novel Supramolecular Architectures—Catenanes, Rotaxanes, and Knots 

Early attempts at preparing catenanes relied on a more or less statistical threading approach. By cyclizing very long chains (with over 30 carbons) to make very large rings, there 

The breakthrough came when it was realized that the concepts of molecular recognition and supramolecular chemistry could be put to use to make catenane synthesis a rational and efficient processes. Two independent strategies—the use of metal complexation chemistry and TT donor-acceptor forces in organic systems—were exploited to make novel structures. 

An example of a host-guest complex between paraquat and a polyether cyclophane. 

Catenane formation using the molecular recognition forces involved in the complex in part A. 

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