Supramolecular 3D Architectures by Metal-directed Assembly of Synthetic Macrocycles

Supramolecular 3D Architectures by Metal-directed Assembly of Synthetic Macrocycles 

The modulation of the metal-directed self-assembly protocols according to the above-mentioned guidelines introduces additional features for non-covalent molecular containers with respect to their covalent counterparts. Reversibility, selection, 

Modem Supramolecular Chemistry Strategies for Macrocycle Synthesis. Edited by Francois Diederich, Peter J. Stang, and Rik R. Tykwinski Copyright 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH Co. KGaA, Weinheim ISBN 978-3-527-31826-1 

Decisive factors to be considered in designing molecular containers are (a) size of the inner cavity, which in most cases must be of nanoscale dimensions to accommodate either single nanoscale guests or multiple smaller molecules [13], (b) size and shape of the cavity portals, to govern the communication with the exterior, and (c) solubility in an aqueous environment, to take advantage of the hydrophobic effect in driving the inclusion of non-polar, neutral guests. 

In this chapter, we cover the metal-directed self-assembly of 3D architectures using macrocycles as molecular scaffolds. Particular emphasis will be given to the synthetic strategies leading to coordination cages and to multitopic macrocyclic receptors, as well as to their complexation properties. 

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