Anion Recognition Strategies Based on Combined Noncovalent Interactions

Synergistic regulation of chloride anion recognition using a triple-functional sites receptor with two different cationic effectors

The synergistic regulation of the multi-functional sites on one receptor molecule with different cationic effectors for anion recognition is scarce to be well understood from the experiment and theory. In this work, a new anion receptor with three functional zones including ether hole, biurea and double bipyridine groups (EUPR) is designed expecting to enhance the chloride anion recognition together with a rational synthesis path being proposed based on four simple and mature organic reaction steps. The conformational structures of the designed receptor EUPR and the binding behaviors for three kinds of ions (Cl-, Na+, and Ag+) are deeply investigated by using density functional theoretical calculations. It is found that Cl- binding via the hydrogen bond interaction can be significantly enhanced and synergistically regulated by the two kinds of cations and the corresponding conformational changes of receptor EUPR. Especially, the conformational pre-organization of receptor caused by the encapsulation of sodium ion into ether hole is benefit to the binding for Cl- in both thermodynamics and kinetics. Na+ binding, in turn, can ever be enhanced by chloride anion, whereas it seems that Ag+ binding cannot always be enhanced by chloride anion, reflecting an electrical complementary matching and mutual enhancement effect for different counter ions. Moreover, solvent effect calculations indicate that EUPR may be an ideal candidate structure for Cl- recognition by strategy of counter ion enhancement in water. Additionally, a visual study of intermolecular noncovalent interaction (NCI) and molecular electrostatic potential (ESP) are used for the analysis on the nature of interactions between receptor and bound ions.

A review on oxime functionality: an ordinary functional group with significant impacts in supramolecular chemistry

The oxime functional group is pivotal in chemistry, finding extensive applications in medical science, catalysis, organic functional group transformations, and the recognition of essential and toxic analytes. While the coordination chemistry of oxime derivatives has been thoroughly explored and several reviews have been published on this topic in reputable journals, a comprehensive review encompassing various aspects such as crystal engineering, cation and anion recognition, as well as coordination chemistry activities, is still in demand. This feature article highlights the diverse applications of oxime derivatives across multiple domains of chemistry, including medicine, agriculture, crystal engineering, coordination chemistry, and molecular recognition studies. Each of the oxime derivatives in this feature article are meticulously described in terms of their medicinal applications, crop protection, crystal engineering attributes, analyte recognition capabilities, and coordination chemistry aspects. By providing a comprehensive overview of their versatile applications, this article aims to inspire researchers to explore and develop novel oxime-based derivatives for future applications.

Self-assembly of Ni(II) with a chiral ligand pair vs. mixture of the chiral ligand pair: structural features and recognition ability of Ni2L4 cages

The self-assembly of NiCl2 with a chiral bidentate ligand pair, (1R,2S)-(+)- and (1S,2R)-(-)-1-(nicotinamido)-2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-2-yl nicotinate (r,s-L and s,r-L) in a mixture of ethanol and dioxane, gives rise to stable crystals consisting of [2Cl@Ni2Cl2(s,r-L)4(H2O)2]·4C4H8O2·EtOH and [2Cl@Ni2Cl2(r,s-L)4(H2O)2]·4C4H8O2·EtOH chiral cages, respectively, with two encapsulated chloride anions in the cavities. The most interesting feature is that the self-assembly of NiCl2 with the mixture of r,s-L and s,r-L (1 : 1-1 : 4) produces crystals of thermodynamically stable achiral cages, [2Cl·2H2O@Ni2Cl2(s,r-L)2(r,s-L)2(H2O)2]·7C4H8O2, in the molar ratio range. Furthermore, the [2Cl@Ni2Cl2(s,r-L)4(H2O)2]·4C4H8O2·EtOH and [2Cl@Ni2Cl2(r,s-L)4(H2O)2]·4C4H8O2·EtOH chiral crystals can recognize the pairs of L-,D-tryptophan and L-,D-cysteine via cyclic voltammetry (CV) signals, in contrast to the [2Cl·2H2O@Ni2Cl2(s,r-L)2(r,s-L)2(H2O)2]·7C4H8O2 achiral crystal.

Recognition of Amino Acid Salts by Temperature-Dependent Allosteric Binding with Stereodynamic Urea Receptors

Positive homotropic artificial allosteric systems are important for the regulation of cooperativity, selectivity and nonlinear amplification. Stereodynamic homotropic allosteric receptors can transmit and amplify induced chirality by the first ligand binding to axial chirality between two chromophores. We herein report stereodynamic allosteric urea receptors consisting of a rotational shaft as the axial chirality unit, terphenyl units as structural transmission sites and four urea units as binding sites. NMR titration experiments revealed that the receptor can bind two carboxylate guests in a positive homotropic allosteric manner attributed to the inactivation by intramolecular hydrogen-bonding between urea units within the receptor. In addition, the VT-CD spectra observed upon binding of the urea receptor with l- or D-amino acid salts in MeCN showed interesting temperature-dependent Cotton effects, based on the differences of the receptor shaft unit and the guest structure. The successful discrimination of hydrocarbon-based side chains of amino acid salts indicated that the input of chiral and steric information for the guest was amplified as outputs of the Cotton effect and the temperature-dependence of VT-CD spectra through cooperativity of positive allosteric binding.

Probing Ion-Receptor Interactions in Halide Complexes of Octamethyl Calix[4]Pyrrole

Ion receptors are molecular hosts that bind ionic guests, often with great selectivity. The interplay of solvation and ion binding in anion host-guest complexes in solution governs the binding efficiency and selectivity of such ion receptors. To gain molecular-level insight into the intrinsic binding properties of octamethyl calix[4]pyrrole (omC4P) host molecules with halide guest ions, we performed cryogenic ion vibrational spectroscopy (CIVS) of omC4P in complexes with fluoride, chloride, and bromide ions. We interpret the spectra using density functional theory, describing the infrared spectra of these complexes with both harmonic and anharmonic second-order vibrational perturbation theory (VPT2) calculations. The NH stretching modes of the pyrrole moieties serve as sensitive probes of the ion binding properties, as their frequencies encode the ion-receptor interactions. While scaled harmonic spectra reproduce the experimental NH stretching modes of the chloride and bromide complexes in broad strokes, the high proton affinity of fluoride introduces strong anharmonic effects. As a result, the spectrum of F-·omC4P is not even qualitatively captured by harmonic calculations, but it is recovered very well by VPT2 calculations. In addition, the VPT2 calculations recover the intricate coupling of the NH stretching modes with overtones and combination bands of CH stretching and NH bending modes and with low-frequency vibrations of the omC4P macrocycle, which are apparent for all of the halide ion complexes investigated here. A comparison of the CIVS spectra with infrared spectra of solutions of the same ion-receptor complexes in d3-acetonitrile and d6-acetone shows how ion solvation changes the ion-receptor interactions for the different halide ions.

Solvent effects in anion recognition

Anion recognition is pertinent to a range of environmental, medicinal and industrial applications. Recent progress in the field has relied on advances in synthetic host design to afford a broad range of potent recognition motifs and novel supramolecular structures capable of effective binding both in solution and at derived molecular films. However, performance in aqueous media remains a critical challenge. Understanding the effects of bulk and local solvent on anion recognition by host scaffolds is imperative if effective and selective detection in real-world media is to be viable. This Review seeks to provide a framework within which these effects can be considered both experimentally and theoretically. We highlight proposed models for solvation effects on anion binding and discuss approaches to retain strong anion binding in highly competitive (polar) solvents. The synthetic design principles for exploiting the aforementioned solvent effects are explored.

TDDFT Study on the ESIPT Properties of 2-(2'-Hydroxyphenyl)-Benzothiazole and Sensing Mechanism of a Derived Fluorescent Probe for Fluoride Ion

The level of fluoride ions (F-) in the human body is closely related to various pathological and physiological states, and the rapid detection of F- is important for studying physiological processes and the early diagnosis of diseases. In this study, the detailed sensing mechanism of a novel high-efficiency probe (PBT) based on 2-(2'-hydroxyphenyl)-benzothiazole derivatives towards F- has been fully investigated based on density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) methods. F- attacks the O-P bond of PBT to cleavage the dimethylphosphinothionyl group, and the potential products were evaluated by Gibbs free energy and spectroscopic analyses, which ultimately identified the product as HBT-Enol1 with an intramolecular hydrogen bond. Bond parameters, infrared vibrational spectroscopy and charge analysis indicate that the hydrogen bond is enhanced at the excited state (S1), favoring excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT). The mild energy barrier further evidences the occurrence of ESIPT. Combined with frontier molecular orbital (FMO) analysis, the fluorescence quenching of PBT was attributed to the photoinduced electron transfer (PET) mechanism and the fluorescence turn-on mechanism of the product was attributed to the ESIPT process of HBT-Enol1.

Remote control of anion binding by CH-based receptors

We show that the substitution of tetra(benzimidazole)resorcin[4]arenes with electron withdrawing groups on the upper rim enhances anion binding at the opposite edge by more than three orders of magnitude. Moreover, selective anion binding at either the OH/NH or CH binding sites is demonstrated.

Selective turn-on sensing of adenosine diphosphate and phosphate anions by ruthenium (II) polypyridine anchored p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene platform

BACKGROUND

Nucleoside polyphosphate (NPP) anions are important for enzymatic activity and should be monitored by scientists in industry and medicine. By elucidating enzyme kinetics and processes, it aids in the discovery of effective inhibitors and activators. Nucleoside polyphosphate (NPP) anions are used by kinases, GTPases, and glycosyltransferases (GTs). Phosphorylation of certain amino acid residues (Ser, Thr, and Tyr) on proteins requires the breakdown of ATP by protein kinases, which produces ADP. Protein kinases, breakdown of ATP, and NPP are the focus of oncology drug development because the aberrant control of kinase activity is a common cause of cancer.

RESULTS

However, a discriminative turn-on fluorescent property is exhibited by non-fluorescent p-tertbutylcalix[4]arene modified 1,2,3-triazole containing bis-ruthenium polypyridyl complex (RL) upon the addition of phosphate anions such as (dihydrogen pyrophosphate (H2P2O72-) and dihydrogen phosphate (H2PO4-)) in CH3CN solvent and Adenosine Diphosphate (ADP) in CH3CN/HEPES (pH = 7.4) buffer (9/1, v/v). The probe RL shows a better-recognizing ability with pyrophosphate anion (H2P2O72-) than dihydrogen phosphate anion (H2PO4-). With H2P2O72- and H2PO4- anions, the RL detection limit was calculated to be as low as 83 nM and 198 nM, respectively.

SIGNIFICANCE

The calix[4]arene macrocycle's excellent size and binding cone conformation make it a good host-guest interface for the pyrophosphate anion and ADP. The bis-ruthenium polypyridyl complex's connection to the p-tertbutyl calix[4]arene moiety creates the ADP selectivity turn-on sensor. When moving from mono-nuclear to bi-nuclear ruthenium complex anchored on p-tertbutyl calix[4]arene, the probe can differentiate ADP, ATP, and AMP. Furthermore, this platform is a great resource for creating devices to simultaneously assess phosphate anions in environmental samples.

Fullerene-Functionalized Halogen-Bonding Heteroditopic Hosts for Ion-Pair Recognition

Despite their hydrophobic surfaces with localized π-holes and rigid well-defined architectures providing a scaffold for preorganizing binding motifs, fullerenes remain unexplored as potential supramolecular host platforms for the recognition of anions. Herein, we present the first example of the rational design, synthesis, and unique recognition properties of novel fullerene-functionalized halogen-bonding (XB) heteroditopic ion-pair receptors containing cation and anion binding domains spatially separated by C60. Fullerene spatial separation of the XB donors and the crown ether complexed potassium cation resulted in a rare example of an artificial receptor containing two anion binding sites with opposing preferences for hard and soft halides. Importantly, the incorporation of the C60 motif into the heteroditopic receptor structure has a significant effect on the halide binding selectivity, which is further amplified upon K+ cation binding. The potassium cation complexed fullerene-based receptors exhibit enhanced selectivity for the soft polarizable iodide ion which is assisted by the C60 scaffold preorganizing the potent XB-based binding domains, anion-π interactions, and the exceptional polarizability of the fullerene moiety, as evidenced from DFT calculations. These observations serve to highlight the unique properties of fullerene surfaces for proximal charged guest binding with potential applications in construction of selective molecular sensors and modulating the properties of solar cell devices.

Halide Complexes of 5,6-Dicyano-2,1,3-Benzoselenadiazole with 1 : 4 Stoichiometry: Cooperativity between Chalcogen and Hydrogen Bonding

The [M4 -Hal]- (M=the title compound; Hal=Cl, Br, and I) complexes were isolated in the form of salts of [Et4 N]+ cation and characterized by XRD, NMR, UV-Vis, DFT, QTAIM, EDD, and EDA. Their stoichiometry is caused by a cooperative interplay of σ-hole-driven chalcogen (ChB) and hydrogen (HB) bondings. In the crystal, [M4 -Hal]- are connected by the π-hole-driven ChB; overall, each [Hal]- is six-coordinated. In the ChB, the electrostatic interaction dominates over orbital and dispersion interactions. In UV-Vis spectra of the M+[Hal]- solutions, ChB-typical and [Hal]- -dependent charge-transfer bands are present; they reflect orbital interactions and allow identification of the individual [Hal]- . However, the structural situation in the solutions is not entirely clear. Particularly, the UV-Vis spectra of the solutions are different from the solid-state spectra of the [Et4 N]+ [M4 -Hal]- ; very tentatively, species in the solutions are assigned [M-Hal]- . It is supposed that the formation of the [M4 -Hal]- proceeds during the crystallization of the [Et4 N]+ [M4 -Hal]- . Overall, M can be considered as a chromogenic receptor and prototype sensor of [Hal]- . The findings are also useful for crystal engineering and supramolecular chemistry.

π-Electronic ion pairs: building blocks for supramolecular nanoarchitectonics viaiπ-iπ interactions

The pairing of charged π-electronic systems and their ordered arrangement have been achieved by iπ-iπ interactions that are derived from synergetically worked electrostatic and dispersion forces. Charged π-electronic systems that provide ion pairs as building blocks for assemblies have been prepared by diverse strategies for introducing charge in the core π-electronic systems. One method to prepare charged π-electronic systems is the use of covalent bonding that makes π-electronic ions and valence-mismatched metal complexes as well as protonated and deprotonated states. Noncovalent ion complexation is another method used to create π-electronic ions, particularly for anion binding, producing negatively charged π-electronic systems. Charged π-electronic systems afford various ion pairs, consisting of both cationic and anionic π-systems, depending on their combinations. Geometries and electronic states of the constituents in π-electronic ion pairs affect the photophysical properties and assembling modes. Recent progress in π-electronic ion pairs has revealed intriguing characteristics, including the transformation into radical pairs through electron transfer and the magnetic properties influenced by the countercations. Furthermore, the assembly states exhibit diversity as observed in crystals and soft materials including liquid-crystal mesophases. While the chemistry of ion pairs (salts) is well-established, the field of π-electronic ion pairs is relatively new; however, it holds great promise for future applications in novel materials and devices.

13-8-13-Membered Tricyclic Ladder-Type Siloxanes Hybridized with BINOLs: Synthesis, Characterization, and Fluorescence Sensing of Fluorides

Developing fluorescent chemosensors with sensitivity and high specificity for recognizing fluorides is still challenging. Herein, four innovative compounds based on 13-8-13-membered tricyclic ladder-type siloxanes hybridized with BINOLs (abbreviated as TLS-BINOLs) were prepared through the B(C6F5)3-catalyzed Piers-Rubinsztajn reaction. The well-defined ladder-type structure of the TLS-BINOLs was determined by X-ray crystallographic analysis. Additionally, the fluorescent sensing ability of the TLS-BINOLs toward anions was studied. Our finding revealed that all four ladder-type compounds (TLS-BINOLs) exhibited high specificity in recognizing fluorides through fluoride-triggered structural decomposition. The detection limits for fluorides were determined to be 0.37, 0.35, 0.39, and 0.48 μM for the respective TLS-BINOLs. The nonemissive product induced by the fluorides was also determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis.

Supramolecular Motifs in the Crystal Structures of Triethylbenzene Derivatives Bearing Pyridinium Subunits in Combination with Pyrimidinyl or Pyridinyl Groups

A series of mono- and dicationic 1,3,5-trisubstituted 2,4,6-triethylbenzenes containing pyridinium groups in combination with aminopyrimidine-/aminopyridine-based recognition units were synthesized and crystallographically studied. The combination of neutral and ionic building blocks represents a promising strategy for the development of effective and selective artificial receptors for anionic substrates. In the crystalline state, the investigated compounds show a tendency to bind the counterion PF6- in the cavity formed by the three functionalized side-arms. The intermolecular interactions with the PF6- ion comprise N-H∙∙∙F and C-H∙∙∙F bonds. Detailed analysis of various supramolecular motifs, including interactions with solvent molecules, provides deeper insights into the processes of molecular recognition. The information obtained is useful in the development of new receptor molecules for anions and in the selection of the most appropriate counterion.

Nanoelectrochemistry at liquid/liquid interfaces for analytical, biological, and material applications

Herein, we feature our recent efforts toward the development and application of nanoelectrochemistry at liquid/liquid interfaces, which are also known as interfaces between two immiscible electrolyte solutions (ITIES). Nanopipets, nanopores, and nanoemulsions are developed to create the nanoscale ITIES for the quantitative electrochemical measurement of ion transfer, electron transfer, and molecular transport across the interface. The nanoscale ITIES serves as an electrochemical nanosensor to enable the selective detection of various ions and molecules as well as high-resolution chemical imaging based on scanning electrochemical microscopy. The powerful nanoelectroanalytical methods will be useful for biological and material applications as illustrated by in situ studies of solid-state nanopores, nuclear pore complexes, living bacteria, and advanced nanoemulsions. These studies provide unprecedented insights into the chemical reactivity of important biological and material systems even at the single nanostructure level.

Steric Control over the Threading of Pyrophosphonates with One or Two Cyanostar Macrocycles during Pseudorotaxane Formation

The supramolecular recognition of anions is increasingly harnessed to achieve the self-assembly of supramolecular architectures, ranging from cages and polymers to (pseudo)rotaxanes. The cyanostar (CS) macrocycle has previously been shown to form 2 : 1 complexes with organophosphate anions that can be turned into [3]rotaxanes by stoppering. Here we achieved steric control over the assembly of pseudorotaxanes comprising the cyanostar macrocycle and a thread that is based, for the first time, on organo-pyrophosphonates. Subtle differences in steric bulk on the threads allowed formation of either [3]pseudorotaxanes or [2]pseudorotaxanes. We demonstrate that the threading kinetics are governed by the steric demand of the organo-pyrophosphonates and in one case, slows down to the timescale of minutes. Calculations show that the dianions are sterically offset inside the macrocycles. Our findings broaden the scope of cyanostar-anion assemblies and may have relevance for the design of molecular machines whose directionality is a result of relatively slow slipping.

BINOL and triazole-containing Janus rings and 29-8-29-membered tricyclic ladder-type hybridized siloxane: application in the fluorescence sensing of anions

Tetrachloro- and tetraazide-substituted all-cis-tetraphenylcyclotetrasiloxanes (all-cis-T₄) 2 and 3 were synthesized in high yields and were fully characterized. Then the precursor 3 underwent CuAAC click reaction with monopropargyl BINOL 4 and dipropargyl BINOL 6 to give the novel BINOL and triazole-containing all-cis-T₄ cyclic siloxane 5 and the 29-8-29-membered-ring ladder-type hybrid siloxane 7. The sensing ability of compounds 5 and 7 towards anions was studied as well, and it was observed that 7 could selectively recognize iodides through synergistic C-H⋯I hydrogen bonding, resulting in an impressive fluorescence quenching with a K_sv of 8.10 × 10⁴ M^-1.

Conformationally Flexible Cleft Receptor for Chloride Anion Transport

The design and synthesis of a cleft-shaped bis-diarylurea receptor for chloride anion transport is reported in this work. The receptor is based on the foldameric nature of N,N'-diphenylurea upon its dimethylation. The bis-diarylurea receptor exhibits a strong and selective affinity for chloride over bromide and iodide anions. A nanomolar quantity of the receptor efficiently transports the chloride across a lipid bilayer membrane as a 1:1 complex (EC₅₀ = 5.23 nm). The work demonstrates the utility of the N,N'-dimethyl-N,N'-diphenylurea scaffold in anion recognition and transport.

An amphiphilic macrocyclic acylhydrazone dimer: Facile synthesis and dual channel detection and removal of phthalate anion

Despite the large number of dicarboxylates' receptors, the dual channel ones capable of recognizing and removing of phthalate anion are rare and the task remains challenging. In this paper, a facilely synthesized amphiphilic macrocyclic acylhydrazone dimer (AMAD) can not only detect phthalate anion selectively, through both color changes and turn-on fluorescence in solution as well as in solid state, but is also able to remove it from either water or organic solvents. The current study paves the way for the search of more multiple functional receptors of dicarboxylates anions.

A molecular descriptor of intramolecular noncovalent interaction for regulating optoelectronic properties of organic semiconductors

In recent years, intramolecular noncovalent interaction has become an important means to modulate the optoelectronic performances of organic/polymeric semiconductors. However, it lacks a deep understanding and a direct quantitative relationship among the molecular geometric structure, strength of noncovalent interaction, and optoelectronic properties in organic/polymeric semiconductors. Herein, upon systematical theoretical calculations on 56 molecules with and without noncovalent interactions (X···Y, X = O, S, Se, Te; Y = C, F, O, S, Cl), we reveal the essence of the interactions and the dependence of its strength on the molecular geometry. Importantly, a descriptor S is established as a function of several basic geometric parameters to well characterize the noncovalent interaction energy, which exhibits a good inverse correlation with the reorganization energies of the photo-excited states or electron-pumped charged states in organic/polymeric semiconductors. In particular, the experimental ¹H, ⁷⁷Se, and ¹²⁵Te NMR, the optical absorption and emission spectra, and single crystal structures of eight compounds fully confirm the theoretical predictions. This work provides a simple descriptor to characterize the strength of noncovalent intramolecular interactions, which is significant for molecular design and property prediction.

Engineered Binding Microenvironments in Halogen Bonding Polymers for Enhanced Anion Sensing

Mimicking Nature's polymeric protein architectures by designing hosts with binding cavities screened from bulk solvent is a promising approach to achieving anion recognition in competitive media. Accomplishing this, however, can be synthetically demanding. Herein we present a synthetically tractable approach, by directly incorporating potent supramolecular anion-receptive motifs into a polymeric scaffold, tuneable through a judicious selection of the co-monomer. A comprehensive analysis of anion recognition and sensing is demonstrated with redox-active, halogen bonding polymeric hosts. Notably, the polymeric hosts consistently outperform their monomeric analogues, with especially large halide binding enhancements of ca. 50-fold observed in aqueous-organic solvent mixtures. These binding enhancements are rationalised by the generation and presentation of low dielectric constant binding microenvironments from which there is appreciable solvent exclusion.

Catalytic I2-moist DMSO-mediated synthesis of valuable α-amidohydroxyketones and unsymmetrical gem-bisamides from benzimidates

We developed an efficient and straightforward I₂-catalyzed strategy for the synthesis of functionalized α-amidohydroxyketones and symmetrical and unsymmetrical bisamides using incipient benzimidate scaffolds as starting materials and moist-DMSO as a reagent and solvent. The developed method proceeds through chemoselective intermolecular N-C-bond formation of benzimidates and the α-C(sp³)-H bond of acetophenone moieties. The key advantages of these design approaches include broad substrate scope and moderate yields. High-resolution mass spectrometry of the reaction progress and labeling experiments provided suitable evidence regarding the possible mechanism. ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance titration revealed notable interaction between the synthesized α-amidohydroxyketones and some anions as well as biologically important molecules, which revealed a promising recognition property of these valuable motifs.

Tuning anion binding properties of Bis(indolyl)methane Receptors: Effect of substitutions on optical responses

Chromogenic probes based onoxidizedbis(indolyl)methanes have been synthesized with varying substituents (R = -Me [1], -OMe [2], -OH, [3]) on the central aryl ring. In addition to electronic influence, the involvement of substituents in ion-dipole and charge-assisted hydrogen bonding interactions significantly alters the solvatochromic response and pH-sensitive behavior. In polar aprotic solvents, like CH₃CN, a concentration-dependent stepwise color change was observed with F^- ions. In the case of2, a reversible hydrogen bonding interaction between the deprotonated probe and HF₂^- dimer might be responsible for that, while step-wise deprotonation caused by F^- ions could be the probable reason with3. Since the formation of HF₂^- is energetically unfavorable in a polar protic solvent, the response of 2 with F^- ions appears to be very different in EtOH medium. Interestingly, no such alteration in anion sensing behavior was noticed with3going from an aprotic to a protic solvent.

Converting pH probes into "turn-on" fluorescent receptors for anions

Recognition of anions by synthetic receptors is an integral part of supramolecular chemistry continuing to expand and find new application areas in our daily life. Many applications require visualization of anion recognition events, and the generated analytical signal is used to quantify anions in solution. Transferring a binding event to a measured signal is a challenging task. The design of a synthetic receptor must involve not only the perfectly positioned binding sites with complementary noncovalent interactions for a guest but should also realize the sensing mechanism that generates a strong analytical response upon guest binding. This feature article outlines the design concept for the construction of "turn-on" fluorescent receptors for anions involving fluorescent pH probes. Applications of this concept for the construction of synthetic fluorescent receptors for inorganic anions and nucleotides are described. Features of the obtained receptors and possible competing binding and sensing processes in solution are analyzed to understand the scope and limitations of the approach.

Cocrystals assembled from iodoperfluorobenzene and flexible NTPO via halogen and π-hole bonds

Two binary cocrystals of 1,4-diiodotetrafluorobenzene (1,4-DITFB, C₆F₄I₂) and 1,3,5-trifluoro-2,4,6-triiodobenzene (1,3,5-TITFB, C₆F₃I₃) with the flexible 2-{[(naphthalen-2-yl)methyl]sulfanyl}pyridine 1-oxide (NTPO, C₁₆H₁₃NOS) molecule were successfully prepared and characterized by X-ray diffraction and quantum chemistry calculation methods. X-ray diffraction analysis reveals that the conformation of the flexible NTPO molecule has been changed significantly after introducing the 1,4-DITFB or 1,3,5-TITFB molecule into the NTPO lattice. Also the formation of the binary cocrystals is driven mainly by robust C-I...^-O-N⁺ halogen bonds and π-hole...π-bond interactions, and they possess `sandwich' structural frameworks. Moreover, interaction energy analysis and AIM analysis were used to explore the contribution of different fragments to the structural stability and the corresponding electronic properties, which reveals that the robust halogen bonds with shorter bonding lengths [2.768 (4) and 2.789 (3) Å] are suggested to be covalent to a certain degree.

Fluorescence Sensing of Anions by Silanediols Bearing Substituted Naphthyl Groups

Silanediols bearing naphthyl moieties substituted at 5-position with an electron-withdrawing cyano group and an electron-donating N,N-dimethylamino group, respectively, have been prepared and characterized. The substituents on the naphthyl moieties strongly influence the reactivity, photophysical properties, and sensing abilities for anions. The silanediol bearing 1-(5-N,N-dimethylaminonaphthyl) groups exhibited large Stokes shifts based on intramolecular charge transfer and large quantum yields in organic solvents. The silanediol showed favorable ratiometric fluorescence responses of upon the addition of biologically important anions, AcO^- and H₂ PO₄ ^- with the association constants of 4.08×10⁴ and 8.76×10³  mol^-1  dm³ , respectively.

Chloride Binding Modulated by Anion Receptors Bearing Tetrazine and Urea

Modulation and fine-tuning of the strength of weak interactions to bind anions are described in a series of synthetic receptors. The general design of the receptors includes both a urea motif and a tetrazine motif. The synthetic sequence towards three receptors is detailed. Impacts of H-bond strength and linker length between urea and tetrazine on chloride complexation are studied. Binding properties of the chloride anion are examined in both the ground and excited states using a panel of analytical methods (NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, UV/Visible spectroscopies, and fluorescence). A ranking of the receptors by complexation strength has been determined, allowing a better understanding of the structure-properties relationship on these compounds.

Interheteromolecular Hyperconjugation Boosts (De)hydrogenation for Reversible H2 Storage

Interheteromolecular hyperconjugation is ubiquitous in organic systems, affecting bond length, dipole moments, conformations and so on, while its effect on (de)hydrogenation reactivity in a heterogeneous thermo-catalytic system has rarely been explored. Herein, the N-heterocycles containing a benzene ring and aliphatic chain [N-ethylcarbazole (NEC) and N-propylcarbazole (NPC)] were utilized to study the correlation between interheteromolecular hyperconjugation and catalytic (de)hydrogenation. Density functional theory calculations, variable-temperature ¹ H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and catalytic experiments showed that the presented hyperconjugation between NEC and NPC weakened the electron cloud density of aromatic rings and thus facilitated the reactivity with hydrogen featuring unpaired electrons. Therefore, an extremely low temperature of 80 °C was enough for the hydrogenation. Moreover, this interheteromolecular hyperconjugation was general in other N-heterocycles (e. g., N-methyindole and NPC) and was also effective to (de)deuterate as revealed by isotope experiments. This work expands the application of interheteromolecular hyperconjugation to heterogeneous thermocatalysis for reversible H₂ storage.

Current Advances in Diazoles-based Chemosensors for CN- and FDetection

Advances in molecular probes have recently intensified because they are valuable tools in studying species of interest for human health, the environment, and industry. Among these species, cyanide (CN-) and fluoride (F-) stand out as hazardous and toxic ions in trace amounts. Thus, there is a significant interest in probes design for their detection with diverse diazoles (pyrazole and imidazole) used for this purpose. These diazole derivatives are known as functional molecules because of their known synthetic versatility and applicability, as they exhibit essential photophysical properties with helpful recognition centers. This review provides an overview of the recent progress (2017-2021) in diazole-based sensors for CN- and F- detection, using the azolic ring as a signaling or recognition unit. The discussion focuses on the mechanism of the action described for recognizing the anion, the structure of the probes with the best synthetic simplicity, detection limits (LODs), application, and selectivity. In this context, the analysis involves probes for cyanide sensing first, then probes for fluoride sensing, and ultimately, dual probes that allow both species recognition.

A Fluorescein-Substituted Perbrominated Dodecaborate Cluster as an Anchor Dye for Large Macrocyclic Hosts and Its Application in Indicator Displacement Assays

Perhalogenated boron clusters derived from B₁₂Br₁₂^2-, a superchaotropic dianion with a globular icosahedral shape, serve as inorganic cavity binders for cyclodextrins (CDs), in particular for large CDs (γ-CD and δ-CD), with high binding affinity (K_a > 10⁶ M^-1) in aqueous solution. This opens the door for applications of this anchoring moiety by linking it to organic residues, prominently fluorescent dyes. We report here the synthesis of a novel fluorescein-substituted perbrominated dodecaborate cluster by a copper(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne click reaction. The formation of host-guest inclusion complexes between the dodecaborate-modified fluorescein dye and CDs can be readily followed by optical titrations, which afforded a binding constant of ∼1 × 10⁴ M^-1 with γ-CD; that is, the cluster functionalization allows binding of an otherwise nonbinding dye to the macrocycle ("anchor dye"). The formation of the 1:1 host-guest inclusion complex between the dye and γ-CD occurs over a broad range of pH values, which allows its application as a sensitive reporter pair according to the indicator displacement method, e.g., for drug detection. In addition, the substituted dye shows outer-wall binding to cucurbiturils through the dodecaborate moiety, leading to the formation of aggregates and significant fluorescence quenching of the dye.

Tetrel Bonding in Anion Recognition: A First Principles Investigation

Twenty-five molecule-anion complex systems [I₄Tt···X^-] (Tt = C, Si, Ge, Sn and Pb; X = F, Cl, Br, I and At) were examined using density functional theory (ωB97X-D) and ab initio (MP2 and CCSD) methods to demonstrate the ability of the tetrel atoms in molecular entities, I₄Tt, to recognize the halide anions when in close proximity. The tetrel bond strength for the [I₄C···X^-] series and [I₄Tt···X^-] (Tt = Si, Sn; X = I, At), was weak-to-moderate, whereas that in the remaining 16 complexes was dative tetrel bond type with very large interaction energies and short Tt···X close contact distances. The basis set superposition error corrected interaction energies calculated with the highest-level theory applied, [CCSD(T)/def2-TZVPPD], ranged from -3.0 to -112.2 kcal mol^-1. The significant variation in interaction energies was realized as a result of different levels of tetrel bonding environment between the interacting partners at the equilibrium geometries of the complex systems. Although the ωB97X-D computed intermolecular geometries and interaction energies of a majority of the [I₄Tt···X^-] complexes were close to those predicted by the highest level of theory, the MP2 results were shown to be misleading for some of these systems. To provide insight into the nature of the intermolecular chemical bonding environment in the 25 molecule-anion complexes investigated, we discussed the charge-density-based topological and isosurface features that emanated from the application of the quantum theory of atoms in molecules and independent gradient model approaches, respectively.

Supramolecular Diversity, Theoretical Investigation and Antibacterial Activity of Cu, Co and Cd Complexes Based on the Tridentate N,N,O-Schiff Base Ligand Formed In Situ

The four new complexes, [Cu(HL¹)(L²)Cl] (1), [Cu(HL¹)(L¹)]∙Cl∙2H₂O (2), [Co(L¹)₂]∙Cl (3) and [Cd(HL¹)I₂]∙dmso (4), have been prepared by one-pot reactions of the respective chloride or iodide metal salt with a non-aqueous solution of the polydentate Schiff base, HL¹, resulted from in situ condensation of benzhydrazide and 2-pyridinecarboxaldehyde, while a ligand HL², in case of 1, has been formed due to the oxidation of 2-pyridinecarboxaldehyde under reaction conditions. The crystallographic analysis revealed that the molecular building units in 1-4 are linked together into complex structures by hydrogen bonding, resulting in 1D, 2D and 3D supramolecular architectures for 1, 2 and 4, respectively, and the supramolecular trimer for 3. The electronic structures of 1-4 were investigated by the DFT theoretical calculations. The non-covalent interactions in the crystal structures of 1-4 were studied by means of the Hirshfeld surface analysis and the QTAIM theory with a special focus on the C-H⋯Cl bonding. From the DFT/DLPNO-CCSD(T) calculations, using a series of charged model {R₃C-H}⁰⋯Cl^- assemblies, we propose linear regressions for assessment of the interaction enthalpy (ΔH, kcal mol^-1) and the binding energy (BE, kcal mol^-1) between {R₃C-H}⁰ and Cl^- sites starting from the electron density at the bond critical point (ρ(r_BCP), a.u.): ΔH = -678 × ρ(r) + 3 and BE = -726 × ρ(r) + 4. It was also has been found that compounds 1, 3 and 4 during in vitro screening showed an antibacterial activity toward the nine bacteria species, comprising both Gram-positive and Gram-negative, with MIC values ranging from 156.2 to 625 mg/L. The best results have been obtained against Acinetobacter baumannii MβL.

Efficient fluorescent recognition of ATP/GTP by a water-soluble bisquinolinium pyridine-2,6-dicarboxamide compound. Crystal structures, spectroscopic studies and interaction mode with DNA

The new dicationic pyridine-2,6-dicarboxamide-based compound 1 bearing two N-alkylquinolinium units was synthesized, structurally determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, and studied in-depth as a fluorescent receptor for nucleotides and inorganic phosphorylated anions in pure water. The addition of nucleotides to 1 at pH = 7.0 quenches its blue emission with a selective affinity towards adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) and guanosine 5'-tripohosphate (GTP) over other nucleotides such CTP, UTP, ADP, AMP, dicarboxylates and inorganic anions. On the basis of the spectroscopic tools (1H, 31P NMR, UV-vis, fluorescence), MS measurements and DFT calculations, receptor 1 binds ATP with high affinity (log K = 5.04) through the simultaneous formation of strong hydrogen bonds and π-π interactions between the adenosine fragment and quinolinium ring with binding energy calculated in 8.7 kcal mol-1. High affinity for ATP/GTP is attributed to the high acidity of amides and preorganized rigid structure of 1. Receptor 1 is an order of magnitude more selective for ATP than GTP. An efficient photoinduced electron transfer quenching mechanism with simultaneous receptor-ATP complexation in both the excited and ground states is proposed. Additionally, multiple spectroscopic studies and molecular dynamics simulations showed that 1 can intercalate into DNA base pairs.

[2+3] Amide Cages by Oxidation of [2+3] Imine Cages – Revisiting Molecular Hosts for Highly Efficient Nitrate Binding

The pollution of groundwater with nitrate is a serious issue because nitrate can cause several diseases such as methemoglobinemia or cancer. Therefore, selective removal of nitrate by efficient binding to supramolecular hosts is highly desired. Here we describe how to make [2+3] amide cages in very high to quantitative yields by applying an optimized Pinnick oxidation protocol for the conversion of corresponding imine cages. By NMR titration experiments of the eight different [2+3] amide cages with nitrate, chloride and hydrogen sulfate we identified one cage with an unprecedented high selectivity towards nitrate binding vs. chloride (S=705) or hydrogensulfate (S>13500) in CD₂Cl₂/CD₃CN (1 : 3). NMR experiments as well as single‐crystal structure comparison of host‐guest complexes give insight into structure‐property‐relationships.

Recent Advances in Synthesis and Properties of Pyrazoles

Pyrazole-containing compounds represent one of the most influential families of N-heterocycles due to their proven applicability and versatility as synthetic intermediates in preparing relevant chemicals in biological, physical-chemical, material science, and industrial fields. Therefore, synthesizing structurally diverse pyrazole derivatives is highly desirable, and various researchers continue to focus on preparing this functional scaffold and finding new and improved applications; this review highlights some of the most recent and strategic examples regarding the synthesis and properties of different pyrazole derivatives, mainly reported from 2017–present. The discussion involves strategically functionalized rings (i.e., amines, carbaldehydes, halides, etc.) and their use in forming various fused systems, predominantly bicyclic cores with 5:6 fusion taking advantage of our experience in this field and the more recent investigations of our research group.

The roles of charge transfer and polarization in non-covalent interactions: a perspective from ab initio valence bond methods

Noncovalent interactions are ubiquitous and have been well recognized in chemistry, biology and material science. Yet, there are still recurring controversies over their natures, due to the wide range of noncovalent interaction terms. In this Essay, we employed the Valence Bond (VB) methods to address two types of interactions which recently have drawn intensive attention, i.e., the halogen bonding and the CH‧‧‧HC dihydrogen bonding. The VB methods have the advantage of interpreting molecular structures and properties in the term of electron-localized Lewis (resonance) states (structures), which thereby shed specific light on the alteration of the bonding patterns. Due to the electron localization nature of Lewis states, it is possible to define individually and measure both polarization and charge transfer effects which have different physical origins. We demonstrated that both the ab initio VB method and the block-localized wavefunction (BLW) method can provide consistent pictures for halogen bonding systems, where strong Lewis bases NH₃, H₂O and NMe₃ partake as the halogen bond acceptors, and the halogen bond donors include dihalogen molecules and XNO₂ (X = Cl, Br, I). Based on the structural, spectral, and energetic changes, we confirm the remarkable roles of charge transfer in these halogen bonding complexes. Although the weak C-H∙∙∙H-C interactions in alkane dimers and graphene sheets are thought to involve dispersion only, we show that this term embeds delicate yet important charge transfer, bond reorganization and polarization interactions.

Theoretical study on L-H+-L with identical donors: short strong hydrogen bond or not?

Short strong hydrogen bonds (SSHBs) play crucial role in many chemical processes. Recently, as the representative of SSHBs, [F-H-F]- was experimentally observed. [F-H-F]- has a symmetric structure, which can be described as a H+ acid shared by two terminal F- donors (F--H+-F-). To explore whether two identical donors are bound to result in SSHBs, we performed theoretical studies on a series of compounds (L-H+-L) with two identical electron donors (L corresponds to donors containing group 14, 15, 16 and 17 elements). The results show that identical donors do not definitely lead to SSHBs. Instead, typical hydrogen bonds also exist. We found that both electronegativity and basicity contribute to the patterns of hydrogen bonds, where more electronegative and weaker donors benefit to SSHBs. Besides, it was found that zero-point energies also respond to the hydrogen bonding systems. This systemic work is expected to provide more insights into SSHBs.

Three modes of interactions between anions and phenolic macrocycles: a comparative study

Macrocyclic polyphenolic compounds such as resorcin[4]arenes can be considered as multidentate anion receptors. In the current work, we combine new experimental data and reports from the previous literature (solution data and deposited crystal structures from the CCDC) to systematically analyze binding motifs between resorcin[4]arene derivatives and anions, determine the role of supporting interactions from CH donors, ion pairing and estimate their relative strength. We have found that in medium polarity solvents (THF) anion binding is a main driving force for the formation of complexes between resorcinarenes and Alk₄NX salts. Three binding modes have been detected using ¹H NMR and DOSY, depending on the type of additional interactions. Mode I was observed for upper-rim unsubstituted resorcinarenes, which use OH groups and aromatic CH from the upper rim as hydrogen bond donors to form multidentate and multivalent binding sites at the upper rim. Mode II was observed for upper-rim halogenated resorcinarenes (tetrabromo- and tetraiodo-derivatives), which use OH groups and aliphatic CH atoms from the bridges to support the chelation of anions between aromatic units. This binding mode is also multidentate and multivalent, but weaker and more anion-selective than mode I (works effectively for chlorides but not for bromides). For O-substituted derivatives, mode III is observed, with anions bound in a nest formed by aromatic CH atoms in the lower rim (multidentate but monovalent binding). The relative strength of these three binding modes, their solvent-dependence, and emergence in the crystal structures (CCDC) have been evaluated.

Engineered non-covalent π interactions as key elements for chiral recognition

Molecular recognition and self-assembly are often mediated by intermolecular forces involving aromatic π-systems. Despite the ubiquity of such interactions in biological systems and in the design of functional materials, the elusive nature of aromatic π interaction results in that they have been seldom used as a design element for promoting challenging chemical reactions. Described here is a well-engineered catalytic system into which non-covalent π interactions are directly incorporated. Enabled by a lone pair-π interaction and a π-π stacking interaction operating collectively, efficient chiral recognition is successfully achieved in the long-pursued dihydroxylation-based kinetic resolution. Density functional theory calculations shed light on the crucial role played by the lone pair-π interaction between the carbonyl oxygen of the cinchona alkaloid ligand and the electron-deficient phthalazine π moiety of the substrate in the stereoselectivity-determining transition states. This discovery serves as a proof-of-principle example showing how the weak non-covalent π interactions, if ingeniously designed, could be a powerful guide in attaining highly enantioselective catalysis.

Non-covalent π interactions have been rarely used as a design element for promoting chemical reactions. Here the authors report a Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation (SAD)-based kinetic resolution in which a-priori-designed non-covalent forces play a central role in differentiating the enantiomeric substrates.

Supramolecular Incarceration and Extraction of Tetrafluoroberyllate from Water by Nanojars

The previously unexplored noncovalent binding of the highly toxic tetrafluoroberyllate anion (BeF₄^2-) and its extraction from water into organic solvents are presented. Nanojars resemble anion-binding proteins in that they also possess an inner anion binding pocket lined by a multitude of H-bond donors (OH groups), which wrap around the incarcerated anion and completely isolate it from the surrounding medium. The BeF₄-binding propensity of [BeF₄⊂{Cu^II(OH)(pz)}_n]^2- (pz = pyrazolate; n = 27-32) nanojars of different sizes is investigated using an array of techniques including mass spectrometry, paramagnetic ¹H, ⁹Be, and ¹⁹F NMR spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography, along with thermal stability studies in solution and chemical stability studies toward acidity and Ba²⁺ ions. The latter is found to be unable to precipitate the insoluble BaBeF₄ from nanojar solutions, indicating a very strong binding of the BeF₄^2- anion by nanojars. ⁹Be and ¹⁹F NMR spectroscopy allows for the unprecedented direct probing of the incarcerated anion in a nanojar and, along with ¹H NMR studies, reveals the fluxional structure of nanojars and their inner anion-binding pockets. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction provides the crystal and molecular structures of (Bu₄N)₂[BeF₄⊂{Cu(OH)(pz)}₃₂], which contains a novel Cu_x-ring combination (x = 9 + 14 + 9), (Bu₄N)₂[BeF₄⊂{Cu(OH)(pz)}₈₊₁₄₊₉], and (Bu₄N)₂[BeF₄⊂{Cu(OH)(pz)}_6+12+10] and offers detailed structural parameters related to the supramolecular binding of BeF₄^2- in these nanojars. The extraction of BeF₄^2- from water into organic solvents, including the highly hydrophobic solvent n-heptane, demonstrates that nanojars are efficient binding and extracting agents not only for oxoanions but also for fluoroanions.