Synkinesis and Analysis of Molecular Assemblies

Non-covalent bonds in molecular complexes and membranes are formed only under defined conditions (e.g., in water at pH 7 and at room temperature). Under different conditions (e.g., in ethanol or at pH 4 in water or at 70°C in water) complete decomposition may occur. Such decomposition is, however, usually fully reversible. Since reversible reactions have small activation energies, synki- 

Flgure 1.5.1 Molecular model of the vitreous humor of the human eye. 

Typical target assemblies of synkinesis are noncovalent dimers, charge-transfer complexes, hetero-dimers and -trimers, cyclic or helical oligomers, inherently asymmetrical or helical membranes in the form of vesicles, spheres, tubules, and rods, as well as macroscopic surface monolayers. Pores and domains in vesicle membranes and gaps of molecular size in surface monolayers are other synkinetic targets. They may function as receptors or reactive, enzyme-like surface clefts (Fendler, 1982 Fuhrhop 1982 Israelaehvili, 1992 Fuhrhop and Koning). 

While covalent compounds, which are synthesized by regioselective connection of functional groups in any combination of educts, noncovalent compounds usually depend on the fitting of molecules. Five binding effects or forces or a combination of them coimect such molecules. 

The Hydrophobic Effect. The medium for synkinetic reactions is usually bulk water, the surface of water, or the surfaces of appropriate solids in the presence of water. 

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