Selection through Self-Templating

Internal templating refers to the self-selection of library members through intramolecular or intermolecular stabilizing noncovalent interactions. Intramolecular self-templating is observed when the species formed in a DCL are capable of folding upon themselves (Figure 1.2c). The library members that are best able to form favorable noncovalent interactions within themselves will be ampHfied in the library. DCC has therefore been used to study the folding of peptides, nucleotides, and synthetic polymers (Chapter 6). It can be used to direct the reversible... 

Figure 1.2 The different ways in which molecular recognition can exert control over library distribution selection may be through external templating by an added (a) guest or (b) host molecule, or though self-templating that is either (c) intramolecular or (d) intermolecular.

The molecular recognition of a template by a self assembling system leads to preferential assembly of a unique synthesis reaction intermediate. Through nucleation processes, the intermediate undergoes self assembly with other intermediates and results in the formation of cavities or chaimels in a substance uniquely related to the template. When the template resembles a particular transition state, the material may have unique selectivity with respect to the corresponding reaction. 

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