Metal-ion induced amplification of three receptors from dynamic combinatorial libraries of peptide-hydrazones

Self-assembly using dynamic combinatorial chemistry

The principles of an evolution-selection approach to the synthesis of systems capable of molecular recognition are described. Using this dynamic combinatorial self-assembly concept in bulk solution, a variety of successful synthetic receptors have been prepared. The reversible chemistries employed include metalloporphyrin-ligand coordination, hydrazone exchange and disulfide exchange. The prospects for extension of the approach to surfaces are briefly considered.