Metallodendrimers towards enzyme mimics and molecular electronics: new-generation catalysts, sensors and molecular batteries

Large supramolecular metallodendrimers can now be synthesised rapidly, reac hing a high number of branches in only a few generations, and approaching t he de Gennes steric limit. They are characterised by their MALDI TOF mass s pectra, in particular by the molecular peak, and by H-1, C-13 and P-31 NMR. Following rational molecular engineering, they can be designed to achieve essential functions such as molecular batteries, catalysts and sensors for the recognition of various anions. (C) 2001 Academie des sciences / Edition s scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.