F. Hof et al., Emergent conformational preferences of a self-assembling small molecule: Structure and dynamics in a tetrameric capsule, J AM CHEM S, 122(44), 2000, pp. 10991-10996
Herein we report the synthesis of a molecule that self-organizes through hy
drogen bonds into discrete tetrameric capsular species, encapsulating large
polycyclic guest molecules. The unique folded structure of the assembled s
tate is determined by correlation spectroscopy in conjunction with molecula
r modeling. Pendant methoxyl groups are essential for the assembly process
and convey their influence through both electronic pathways and surface int
eractions. Spin polarization transfer experiments show that the capsule und
ergoes rapid guest-exchange processes while being itself kinetically stable
at elevated temperatures.