New molecular vessels: Synthesis and chiroselective recognition

A new structural motif for synthetic receptors is reported. This new motif allows for the incorporation of a variety of nonracemic groups into the str ucture's upper rim. These stereocenters effectively transfer their asymmetr y to the flexible walls of the vessel and result in handed spaces with incr eased stability in protic media. Their synthesis and chiroselective recogni tion for their guest molecules are described.