Origins of stereoselectivity in optically pure phenylethaniminopyridine tris-chelates M(NN')3(n+) (M = Mn, Fe, Co, Ni and Zn)

Dicobalt(ii) helices kill colon cancer cells via enantiomer-specific mechanisms; DNA damage or microtubule disruption

Highly diastereoselective self-assembly reactions give both enantiomers (Λ and Δ) of anti-parallel triple-stranded bimetallic Co(ii) and Co(iii) cationic helices, without the need for resolution; the first such reaction for Co. The complexes are water soluble and stable, even in the case of Co(ii). Studies in a range of cancer and healthy cell lines indicate high activity and selectivity, and substantial differences between enantiomers. The oxidation state has little effect, and correspondingly, Co(iii) compounds are reduced to Co(ii) e.g. by glutathione. In HCT116 colon cancer cells the Λ enantiomer induces dose-dependent G2-M arrest in the cell cycle and disrupts microtubule architectures. This Co(ii) Λ enantiomer is ca. five times more potent than the isostructural Fe(ii) compound. Since the measured cellular uptakes are similar this implies a higher affinity of the Co system for the intracellular target(s); while the two systems are isostructural they have substantially different charge distributions as shown by calculated hydrophobicity maps. In contrast to the Λ enantiomer, Δ-Co(ii) induces G1 arrest in HCT116 cells, efficiently inhibits the topoisomerase I-catalyzed relaxation of supercoiled plasmid DNA, and, unlike the isostructural Fe(ii) system, causes DNA damage. It thus seems very likely that redox chemistry plays a role in the latter.

Steric Effects on the Chelation of Mn2+ and Zn2+ by Hexadentate Polyimidazole Ligands: Modeling Metal Binding by Calprotectin Site 2

Recently, there has been increasing interest in the design of ligands that bind Mn2+ with high affinity and selectivity, but this remains a difficult challenge. It has been proposed that the cavity size of the binding pocket is a critical factor in most synthetic and biological examples of selective Mn2+ binding. Here, we use a bioinspired approach adapted from the hexahistidine binding site of the manganese-sequestering protein calprotectin to systematically study the effect of cavity size on Mn2+ and Zn2+ binding. We have designed a hexadentate, trisimidazole ligand whose cavity size can be tuned through peripheral modification of the steric bulk of the imidazole substituents. Conformational dynamics and redox potentials of the complexes are dependent on ligand steric bulk. Stability constants are consistent with the hypothesis that larger ligand cavities are relatively favorable for Mn2+ over Zn2+ , but this effect alone may not be sufficient to achieve Mn2+ selectivity.

Triplex metallohelices have enantiomer-dependent mechanisms of action in colon cancer cells

Self-assembled enantiomers of an asymmetric di-iron metallohelix differ in their antiproliferative activities against HCT116 colon cancer cells such that the compound with Λ-helicity at the metals becomes more potent than the Δ compound with increasing exposure time. From concentration- and temperature-dependent ⁵⁷Fe isotopic labelling studies of cellular accumulation we postulate that while the more potent Λ enantiomer undergoes carrier-mediated efflux, for Δ the process is principally equilibrative. Cell fractionation studies demonstrate that both enantiomers localise in a similar fashion; compound is observed mostly within the cytoskeleton and/or genomic DNA, with significant amounts also found in the nucleus and membrane, but with negligible concentration in the cytosol. Cell cycle analyses using flow cytometry reveal that the Δ enantiomer induces mild arrest in the G₁ phase, while Λ causes a very large dose-dependent increase in the G₂/M population at a concentration significantly below the relevant IC₅₀. Correspondingly, G₂-M checkpoint failure as a result of Λ-metallohelix binding to DNA is shown to be feasible by linear dichroism studies, which indicate, in contrast to the Δ compound, a quite specific mode of binding, probably in the major groove. Further, spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) failure, which could also be responsible for the observed G₂/M arrest, is established as a feasible mechanism for the Λ helix via drug combination (synergy) studies and the discovery of tubulin and actin inhibition. Here, while the Λ compound stabilizes F-actin and induces a distinct change in tubulin architecture of HCT116 cells, Δ promotes depolymerization and more subtle changes in microtubule and actin networks.

Allosterically Regulated Guest Binding Determines Framework Symmetry for an FeII 4 L4 Cage

Self-assembly of a flexible tritopic aniline and 3-substituted 2-formylpyridine subcomponents around iron(II) templates gave rise to a low-spin FeII 4 L4 capsule, whereas a high-spin FeII 3 L2 sandwich species formed when a sterically hindered 6-methyl-2-formylpyridine was used. The FeII 4 L4 cage adopted a new structure type with S4 symmetry, having two mer-Δ and two mer-Ʌ metal vertices, as confirmed by NMR and X-ray crystallographic analysis. The flexibility of the face-capping ligand endows the resulting FeII 4 L4 framework with conformational plasticity, enabling it to adapt structurally from S4 to T or C3 symmetry upon guest binding. The cage also displayed negative allosteric cooperativity in simultaneously binding different guests within its cavity and at the apertures between its faces.

(4-(Adamantan-1-yl)-1-(isopropyl)-1H-imidazol-2-yl)methanol

(4-(Adamantan-1-yl)-1-(isopropyl)-1H-imidazol-2-yl)methanol was prepared through a five-step process starting from commercially available 1-acetyladamantane. Each step proceeded in moderate-to-excellent yields and the overall yield across five steps was 28%. The compound was identified and characterized by 1H and 13C{1H} NMR, high-resolution mass spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. This compound and its derivatives have the potential to be used as precursors to the synthesis of biomimetic chelating ligands.

Chirality-Driven Self-Assembly of Discrete, Homochiral FeII 2 L3 Cages

Coordination chemistry is a powerful method to synthesize supramolecular cages with distinct features that suit specific applications. This work demonstrates the synthesis of discrete, homochiral Fe^II ₂ L₃ cages via chirality-driven self-assembly. Specifically, the installation of chirality - at both the vertices and ligand backbones - allows the formation of discrete, homochiral Fe^II ₂ L₃ cages of different sizes via stereochemical control of the iron(II) centers. We observed that larger cages require multiple chiral centra (chiral ligands and vertices). In contrast, the formation of smaller cages is stereoselective with solely chiral ligands. The latter cages can also be formed from two chiral subcomponents, but only when they have matching chirality. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction of these smaller Fe^II ₂ L₃ cages revealed several non-covalent interactions as a driving force for narcissistic chiral self-sorting. This expected behavior was confirmed utilizing the shorter ligands in racemic form, yielding discrete, homochiral Fe^II ₂ L₃ cages formed in enantiomeric pairs.

Substituent-Induced Control of fac/mer Isomerism in Azine-NHC Fe(II) Complexes

The stereoselective synthesis of geometrical iron(II) complexes bearing azine-NHC ligands is described. Facial and meridional selectivity is achieved as a function of the steric demand of the azine unit, with no remarkable influence of the carbene nature. More specifically, meridional complexes are obtained upon selecting bulky 5-mesityl-substituted pyridyl coordinating units. Unexpectedly, increase of the steric hindrance in the α position with respect to the N coordinating atom results in an exclusive facial configuration, which is in stark contrast to the meridional selectivity induced by other reported α-substituted bidentate ligands. Investigation of the structure and the optical and electrochemical properties of the here-described complexes has revealed the non-negligible effect of the fac/mer ligand configuration around the metal center.

Solvent Drives Switching between Λ and Δ Metal Center Stereochemistry of M8L6 Cubic Cages

An enantiopure ligand with four bidentate metal-binding sites and four (S)-carbon stereocenters self-assembles with octahedral Zn^II or Co^II to produce O-symmetric M₈L₆ coordination cages. The Λ- or Δ-handedness of the metal centers forming the corners of these cages is determined by the solvent environment: the same (S)-ligand produces one diastereomer, (S)₂₄-Λ₈-M₈L₆, in acetonitrile but another with opposite metal-center handedness, (S)₂₄-Δ₈-M₈L₆, in nitromethane. Van ’t Hoff analysis revealed the Δ stereochemical configuration to be entropically favored but enthalpically disfavored, consistent with a loosening of the coordination sphere and an increase in conformational freedom following Λ-to-Δ transition. The binding of 4,4′-dipyridyl naphthalenediimide and tetrapyridyl Zn-porphyrin guests did not interfere with the solvent-driven stereoselectivity of self-assembly, suggesting applications where either a Λ- or Δ-handed framework may enable chiral separations or catalysis.

A curved host and second guest cooperatively inhibit the dynamic motion of corannulene

Biomolecular systems show how host-guest binding can induce changes in molecular behavior, which in turn impact the functions of the system. Here we report an artificial host-guest system where dynamic adaptation during guest binding alters both host conformation and guest dynamics. The self-assembled cage host employed here possesses concave walls and a chirotopic cavity. Complementarity between the curved surfaces of fullerenes and the inner surface of the host cavity leads the host to reconfigure stereochemically in order to bind these guests optimally. The curved molecule corannulene undergoes rapid bowl-to-bowl inversion at room temperature. Its inversion barrier is increased upon binding, however, and increased further upon formation of a ternary complex, where corannulene and a cycloalkane are both bound together. The chiral nature of the host also leads to clear differences in the NMR spectra of ternary complexes involving corannulene and one or the other enantiomer of a chiral guest, which enables the determination of enantiomeric excess by NMR.

A new generation of terminal copper nitrenes and their application in aromatic C-H amination reactions

Copper nitrene complexes are highly reactive species and are known as intermediates in the copper catalyzed C-H amination. In this study, three novel copper tosyl nitrene complexes were synthesized at low temperatures, stabilized with heteroscorpionate ligands of the bis(pyrazolyl)methane family. The copper nitrenes were obtained by the reaction of a copper(i) acetonitrile complex with ^SPhINTs in dichloromethane. We show that the ligand design has a major influence on the catalytic activity and the thermal stability of the copper nitrene complex. Not only the choice of the third N donor, but also the substituent in the 5-position of the pyrazolyl moiety, have an impact on the stability. Furthermore, the novel copper nitrene complexes were used for catalytic aziridination of styrenes and C-H amination reactions of aromatic and aliphatic substrates under mild reaction conditions. Even challenging substrates like benzene and cyclohexane were aminated with good yields. The copper nitrene complexes were characterized using UV/Vis spectroscopy, low temperature Evans NMR spectroscopy, density functional theory, domain-based local pair natural orbital coupled cluster calculations (DLPNO-CCSD(T)) and cryo-UHR mass spectrometry.

Solvent-dependent fac/mer-isomerization and self-assembly of triply helical complexes bearing a pivot part

Tris-chelate metal complexes of unsymmetrical bidentate ligands can form two geometric stereoisomers, facial (fac) and meridional (mer) isomers. Due to the small difference in their properties, the highly-selective synthesis of one of the isomers is challenging. We now designed a series of tripodal ligands with a tris(3-(2-(methyleneoxy)ethoxy)phenyl)methane pivot. Surprisingly, the ratio of the fac/mer isomers of the triply helical Fe^II complexes significantly changed depending on the solvents. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of fac/mer isomerism of a labile tris(2,2'-bipyridine) Fe^II complex governed by the solvent. Furthermore, well-defined self-assemblies were quantitatively produced by imine bond formation with a suitable diamine. The supramolecular assemblies contained only the fac isomer even though a mixture of the two isomers existed in solution before the condensation reaction. Namely, the self-assembly formation effectively adjusted the geometries of the building unit that results in the suitable supramolecular structure.

Metallohelices emulate the properties of short cationic α-helical peptides

Naturally occurring peptides in many living systems perform antimicrobial and anticancer host defence roles, but their potential for clinical application is limited by low metabolic stability and relatively high costs of goods. Self-assembled helical metal complexes provide an attractive synthetic platform for non-peptidic architectures that can emulate some of the properties of short cationic α-helical peptides, with tuneable charge, shape, size and amphipathicity. Correspondingly there is a growing body of evidence demonstrating that these supramolecular architectures exhibit bioactivity that emulates that of the natural systems. We review that evidence in the context of synthetic advances in the area, driven by the potential for biomedical applications. We note some design considerations for new biologically-relevant metallohelices, and give our outlook on the future of these compounds as therapeutic peptidomimetics.

Modulating Magnetic and Photoluminescence Properties in 2-Aminonicotinate-Based Bifunctional Coordination Polymers by Merging 3d Metal Ions

Herein, the synthesis and study of bifunctional coordination polymers (CPs) with both magnetic and photoluminescence properties, derived from a heterometallic environment, are reported. As a starting point, three isostructural monometallic CPs with the formula [M(μ-2ani)₂ ]_n (M^II =Mn (1_Mn ), Co (3_Co ) and Ni (4_Ni ); 2ani=2-aminonicotinate), crystallise as chiral 2D-layered structures stacked by means of supramolecular interactions. These compounds show high thermal stability in the solid state (above 350 °C), despite which, in aqueous solution, compound 1_Mn is shown to partially transform into a novel 1D chain CP with the formula [Mn(2ani)₂ (μ-H₂ O)₂ ]_n (2_Mn ). A study of the direct current (dc) magnetic properties of 1_Mn , 3_Co and 4_Ni reveals a spin-canted structure derived from antisymmetric antiferromagnetic weak exchanges along the chiral network (as confirmed by DFT calculations) and magnetic anisotropy of the ions, in such a way that long-range ordering is observed with variable magnitude for the spin carriers. Moreover, compounds 3_Co and 4_Ni show no frequency-dependent alternating current (ac) susceptibility curves under zero dc field; this is characteristic behaviour of a glassy state that may be partially supressed for 3_Co by applying an external dc field. To overcome long-range magnetic ordering, Co^II ions are diluted in a diamagnetic Zn^II -based matrix, which enables single-molecule magnet behaviour. Interestingly, this strategy allows a bifunctional Co_x Zn_1-x 2ani material, which is imbued with a strong photoluminescent emitting capacity, as characterised by an intense blue light followed by a green afterglow, to be obtained.

Oxidation triggers guest dissociation during reorganization of an FeII 4L6 twisted parallelogram

A three-dimensional FeII 4L6 parallelogram was prepared from ferrocene-containing ditopic ligands. The steric preference of the bulky ferrocene cores towards meridional vertex coordination brought about this new structure type, in which the ferrocene units adopt three distinct conformations. The structure possesses two distinct, bowl-like cavities that host anionic guests. Oxidation of the ferrocene FeII to ferrocenium FeIII causes rotation of the ferrocene hinges, converting the structure to an FeII 1L1 + species with release of anionic guests, even though the average charge per iron increases in a way that would ordinarily increase guest binding strength. The degrees of freedom exhibited by these new structures - derived from the different configurations of the three ligands surrounding a meridional FeII center and the rotation of ferrocene cores - thus underpin their ability to reconfigure and eject guests upon oxidation.

Structural Evidence of Spin State Selection and Spin Crossover Behavior of Tripodal Schiff Base Complexes of tris(2-aminoethyl)amine and Related Tripodal Amines

A review of the tripodal Schiff base (SB) complexes of tris(2-aminoethyl)amine, Nap(CH2CH 2NH2)3 (tren), and a few closely related tripodal amines with Cr(II), Mn(III) (d4), Mn(II), Fe(III) (d5), Fe(II) (d6), and Co(II) (d7) is provided. Attention is focused on examination of key structural features, the M-Nimine, M-Namine, or M-O and M-Nap bond distances and Nimine-M-N(O) bite and C-Nap-C angles and how these values correlate with spin state selection and spin crossover (SCO) behavior. A comparison of these experimental values with density functional theory calculated values is also given. The greatest number, 132, of complexes is observed with cationic mononuclear iron(II) in a N6 donor set, Fe(II)N6. The dominance of two spin states, high spin (HS) and low spin (LS), in these systems is indicated by the bimodal distribution of histogram plots of Fe(II)-Nimine and Fe(II)-Nazole/pyridine bond distances and of Nimine–Fe(II)-Nazole/pyridine and C-Nap-C bond angles. The values of the two maxima, corresponding to LS and HS states, in each of these histograms agree closely with the theoretical values. The iron(II)-Nimine and iron(II)-Nazole/pyridine bond distances correlate well for these complexes. Examples of SCO complexes of this type are tabulated and a few of the 20 examples are discussed that exhibit interesting features. There are only a few mononuclear iron(III) cationic complexes and one is SCO. In addition, a significant number of supramolecular complexes of these ligands that exhibit SCO, intervalence, and chiral recognition are discussed. A summary is made regarding the current state of this area of research and possible new avenues to explore based on analysis of the present data.

Self-assembled supramolecular structures of O,N,N' tridentate imidazole-phenol Schiff base compounds

Three imidazole-derived Schiff base compounds comprising an N-methyl imidazole group coupled to a phenol ring through an imine bond were synthesised. The structures differ by the substituent on the phenol ring at the 4-position: methyl (1), tert-butyl (2) and hydrogen (3). The compounds were synthesised using both a traditional reflux in solvent as well as an environmentally friendly solid-state reaction. Compounds (1)–(3) as well as the hemihydrate of (3) were all studied by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The asymmetric unit of compound (1) consists of two nominally planar molecules linked by hydrogen bonds to form a dimeric supramolecular structure. This dimeric structure was ubiquitous for the anhydrous forms of (1)–(3). The complementary hydrogen bonding motif between the imidazole N atoms and the phenol OH results in a stable 16-membered hydrogen-bonded ring. The asymmetric unit of (3) comprises two symmetry-independent molecules one of which has co-planar imidazole and phenol rings while the other shows a significantly oblique orientation. The hemihydrate of (3) similarly forms extensive hydrogen bonds, though in the form of a water-bridged dimeric structure. The hydrogen bond lengths (D⋯A) for compounds (1)–(3) are relatively short, ranging from 2.662(1) to 2.688(1) Å. DFT was used to understand the relative stability of the monomeric and dimeric species. These showed the hydrogen-bonded supramolecular structures were ca. 101 kJ mol⁻¹ lower in energy than the non-interacting monomers. Scan simulations were used to calculate the total energy of the molecule as a function of phenyl ring rotation and showed why the expected planar configuration for a conjugated π-system was not observed experimentally. The barrier to rotation was found to be relatively low, 7.97(6) kJ mol⁻¹, with the lowest energy conformations subtending dihedral angles of 22.319, 24.265 and 25.319° for molecules (1), (2) and (3), respectively. The electrostatic potential maps are able to succinctly explain the stability of the hydrogen bonds through the partial charges of the interacting atoms. TD-DFT simulations and analysis of the simulated and experimental UV/visible spectra suggest that the dimeric supramolecular structure is a stable species in solution. This was confirmed through ¹H NMR titrations and an equilibrium constant of 0.16(5) M⁻¹ was estimated.

Three imidazole-derived Schiff base compounds comprising an N-methyl imidazole group coupled to a phenol ring through an imine bond were synthesised. The solid state and solution state supramolecular structures as well as energetics are explored.

Metallohelices that kill Gram-negative pathogens using intracellular antimicrobial peptide pathways

A range of new water-compatible optically pure metallohelices - made by self-assembly of simple non-peptidic organic components around Fe ions - exhibit similar architecture to some natural cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) and are found to have high, structure-dependent activity against bacteria, including clinically problematic Gram-negative pathogens. A key compound is shown to freely enter rapidly dividing E. coli cells without significant membrane disruption, and localise in distinct foci near the poles. Several related observations of CAMP-like mechanisms are made via biophysical measurements, whole genome sequencing of tolerance mutants and transcriptomic analysis. These include: high selectivity for binding of G-quadruplex DNA over double stranded DNA; inhibition of both DNA gyrase and topoisomerase I in vitro; curing of a plasmid that contributes to the very high virulence of the E. coli strain used; activation of various two-component sensor/regulator and acid response pathways; and subsequent attempts by the cell to lower the net negative charge of the surface. This impact of the compound on multiple structures and pathways corresponds with our inability to isolate fully resistant mutant strains, and supports the idea that CAMP-inspired chemical scaffolds are a realistic approach for antimicrobial drug discovery, without the practical barriers to development that are associated with natural CAMPS.

Chiral superstructures from homochiral Zn2+ , Co2+ , Fe2+ -2,6-bis (aryl ethylimine)pyridine complexes

We report the hierarchical supramolecular organization of metallosupramolecular homochiral complexes 1-Λ-(S,S,S,S)-M²⁺ /1-∆-(R,R,R,R)-M²⁺ and 2- Λ-(S,S,S,S)-M²⁺ /2-∆- (R,R,R,R)-M²⁺ of M²⁺ = Co²⁺ , Fe²⁺ , Zn²⁺ metal ions with chiral pseudo-terpyridine-type ligands: 1-(S,S) or 1-(R,R) = 2,6-bis (naphthyl ethylimine)pyridine and 2-(S,S) or 2-(R,R) = 2,6-bis (phenyl-ethylimine)pyridine. Circular dichroism measurements in solution were used to confirm the enantiomeric nature of all twelve complexes. For crystal structures of 1- Λ- (S,S,S,S)-M²⁺ or 1-∆- (R,R,R,R)-M²⁺ complexes, absolute configurations {∆ (or P), Λ (or M)} were confirmed by refinement of the Flack parameter x: -0.007 ≤ x ≤ 0.11 for the single crystals of 1-Λ-(S,S,S,S)-M²⁺ /1-∆- (R,R,R,R)-M²⁺ , 2- Λ- (S,S,S,S)-Fe²⁺ , and 2-∆- (R,R,R,R)-Co²⁺ .

Synthesis and Characterization of Self-Assembled Chiral FeII 2 L3 Cages

We present here the synthesis of chiral BINOL-derived (BINOL=1,1'-bi-2-naphthol) bisamine and bispyridine-aldehyde building blocks that can be used for the self-assembly of novel chiral FeII 2 L3 cages when mixed with an iron(II) precursor. The properties of a series of chiral cages were studied by NMR and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, cold-spray ionization MS, and molecular modeling. Upon formation of the M2 L3 cages, the iron corners can adopt various isomeric forms: mer, fac-Δ, or fac-Λ. We found that the coordination geometry around the metal centers in R-Cages 1 and 2 were influenced by the chiral BINOL backbone only to a limited extent, as a mixture of cages was formed with fac and mer configurations at the iron corners. However, single cage species (fac-RR-Cage and fac-RS-Cage) that are enantiopure and highly symmetric were obtained by generating these chiral M2 L3 cages by using the bispyridine-aldehyde building blocks in combination with chiral amine moieties to form pyridylimine ligands for coordination to iron. Next to consistent NMR spectra, the CD spectra confirm the configurations fac-(Λ,Λ) and fac-(Δ,Δ) corresponding to RR- and RS-Cage, respectively.

Multi-responsive coordination polymers utilising metal-stabilised, dynamic covalent imine bonds

We report how the combination of dynamic covalent imine bonds and coordination bonds in a single polymer material not only imparts enhanced stability to the final polymer, but also allows the material to be sensitive to a range of stimuli, offering more fine-grained control over its properties.

A bis(pyridyl)-N-alkylamine/Cu(i) catalyst system for aerobic alcohol oxidation

Herein a bis(pyridyl)-N-alkylamine/Cu^I/TEMPO/NMI catalyst system is reported for aerobic oxidation of a variety of primary alcohols to the corresponding aldehydes using readily available reagents, at room temperature and ambient air as the oxidant. ESI-MS analysis of the reaction showed the formation of a [(L1)(NMI)Cu^II-OOH]⁺ species, which is a key intermediate in the alcohol oxidation reaction. Evaluation of the effect of reaction parameters on the initial rate of the reaction allowed us to obtain the optimum conditions for catalytic activity. The careful choice of reaction solvent allowed for the oxidation of 4-hydroxybenzyl alcohol, a substrate which proved problematic in previous studies. In the case of 2-pyridinemethanol as substrate, experimental evidence shows that catalytic activity is diminished due to competitive inhibition of the catalyst by the alcohol substrate.

Spin States of Homochiral and Heterochiral Isomers of [Fe(PyBox)2 ]2+ Derivatives

The following iron(II) complexes of 2,6-bis(oxazolinyl)pyridine (PyBox; L^H ) derivatives are reported: [Fe(L^H )₂ ][ClO₄ ]₂ (1); [Fe((R)-L^Me )₂ ][ClO₄ ]₂ ((R)-2; L^Me =2,6-bis{4-methyloxazolinyl}pyridine); [Fe((R)-L^Ph )₂ ][ClO₄ ]₂ ((R)-3) and [Fe((R)-L^Ph )((S)-L^Ph )][ClO₄ ]₂ ((RS)-3; L^Ph =2,6-bis{4-phenyloxazolinyl}pyridine); and [Fe((R)-L^iPr )₂ ][ClO₄ ]₂ ((R)-4) and [Fe((R)-L^iPr )((S)-L^iPr )][ClO₄ ]₂ ((RS)-4; L^iPr =2,6-bis{4-isopropyloxazolinyl}pyridine). Solid (R)-3⋅MeNO₂ exhibits an unusual very gradual, but discontinuous thermal spin-crossover with an approximate T1/2 of 350 K. The discontinuity around 240 K lies well below T1/2 , and is unconnected to a crystallographic phase change occurring at 170 K. Rather, it can be correlated with a gradual ordering of the ligand conformation as the temperature is raised. The other solid compounds either exhibit spin-crossover above room temperature (1 and (RS)-3), or remain high-spin between 5-300 K [(R)-2, (R)-4 and (RS)-4]. Homochiral (R)-3 and (R)-4 exhibit more twisted ligand conformations and coordination geometries than their heterochiral isomers, which can be attributed to steric clashes between ligand substituents [(R)-3]; or, between the isopropyl substituents of one ligand and the backbone of the other ((R)-4). In solution, (RS)-3 retains its structural integrity but (RS)-4 undergoes significant racemization through ligand redistribution by ¹ H NMR. (R)-4 and (RS)-4 remain high-spin in solution, whereas the other compounds all undergo spin-crossover equilibria. Importantly, T1/2 for (R)-3 (244 K) is 34 K lower than for (RS)-3 (278 K) in CD₃ CN, which is the first demonstration of chiral discrimination between metal ion spin states in a molecular complex.

Syntheses and structures of two new coordination polymers generated from a 4-aminotriazole-bridged organic ligand and CoII salts

Organic ligands and counter-anions influence the coordination spheres of metal cations and hence the construction of coordination polymers (CPs). The specific bent geometries of five-membered heterocyclic triazole bridging organic ligands are capable of generating CPs with novel patterns not easily obtained using rigid linear ligands. A multidentate 4-aminotriazole-bridged organic ligand, namely 4-amino-3,5-bis(4,3'-bipyridyl-5'-yl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole (L) has been prepared and used to synthesize two Co^II coordination polymers, namely poly[[[μ₂-4-amino-3,5-bis(4,3'-bipyridyl-5'-yl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole-κ²N:N']bis(methanol-κO)cobalt(II)] bis(perchlorate)], {[Co(C₂₂H₁₆N₈)₂(CH₃OH)₂](ClO₄)₂}_n, (I), and poly[[μ₃-4-amino-3,5-bis(4,3'-bipyridyl-5'-yl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole-κ³N:N':N'']dichloridocobalt(II)], [CoCl₂(C₂₂H₁₆N₈)]_n, (II), using CoX₂ salts [X = ClO₄ for (I) and Cl for (II)] under solvothermal conditions. Single-crystal X-ray structure analysis revealed that they both feature two-dimensional networks. Cobalt is located on an inversion centre in (I) and in a general position in (II). In (I), L functions as a bidentate cis-conformation ligand linking Co^II ions, while it functions as a tridentate trans-conformation linker binding Co^II ions in (II). In addition, O-H...N and N-H...O hydrogen bonds and C-H...π interactions exist in (I), while N-H...Cl and π-π interactions exist in (II), and these weak interactions play an important role in aligning the two-dimensional nets of (I) and (II) in the solid state. As the compounds were synthesized under the same conditions, the significant structural variations between (I) and (II) are believed to be determined by the different sizes and coordination abilities of the counter-anions. IR spectroscopy and diffuse reflectance UV-Vis spectra were also used to investigate the title compounds.

Chiral Iridium(III) Complexes in Light-Emitting Electrochemical Cells: Exploring the Impact of Stereochemistry on the Photophysical Properties and Device Performances

Despite hundreds of cationic bis-cyclometalated iridium(III) complexes having been explored as emitters for light-emitting electrochemical cells (LEECs), uniformly their composition has been in the form of a racemic mixture of Λ and Δ enantiomers. The investigation of LEECs using enantiopure iridium(III) emitters, however, remains unprecedented. Herein, we report the preparation, the crystal structures, and the optoelectronic properties of two families of cyclometalated iridium(III) complexes of the form of [(C^N)₂Ir(dtBubpy)]PF₆ (where dtBubpy is 4,4'-di-tert-butyl-2,2'-bipyridine) in both their racemic and enantiopure configurations. LEEC devices using Λ and Δ enantiomers as well as the racemic mixture of both families have been prepared, and the device performances were tested. Importantly, different solid-state photophysical properties exist between enantiopure and racemic emitters, which are also reflected in the device performances.

Quantification of Stereochemical Communication in Metal-Organic Assemblies

The derivation and application of a statistical mechanical model to quantify stereochemical communication in metal-organic assemblies is reported. The factors affecting the stereochemical communication within and between the metal stereocenters of the assemblies were experimentally studied by optical spectroscopy and analyzed in terms of a free energy penalty per "incorrect" amine enantiomer incorporated, and a free energy of coupling between stereocenters. These intra- and inter-vertex coupling constants are used to track the degree of stereochemical communication across a range of metal-organic assemblies (employing different ligands, peripheral amines, and metals); temperature-dependent equilibria between diastereomeric cages are also quantified. The model thus provides a unified understanding of the factors that shape the chirotopic void spaces enclosed by metal-organic container molecules.

Quantification of Stereochemical Communication in Metal-Organic Assemblies

The derivation and application of a statistical mechanical model to quantify stereochemical communication in metal-organic assemblies is reported. The factors affecting the stereochemical communication within and between the metal stereocenters of the assemblies were experimentally studied by optical spectroscopy and analyzed in terms of a free energy penalty per "incorrect" amine enantiomer incorporated, and a free energy of coupling between stereocenters. These intra- and inter-vertex coupling constants are used to track the degree of stereochemical communication across a range of metal-organic assemblies (employing different ligands, peripheral amines, and metals); temperature-dependent equilibria between diastereomeric cages are also quantified. The model thus provides a unified understanding of the factors that shape the chirotopic void spaces enclosed by metal-organic container molecules.

Recognition of DNA/RNA bulges by antimicrobial and antitumor metallohelices

Bulged structures have been identified in nucleic acids and have been shown to be linked to biomolecular processes involved in numerous diseases. Thus, chemical agents with affinity for bulged nucleic acids are of general biological significance. Herein, the mechanism of specific recognition and stabilization of bulged DNA and RNA by helical bimetallic species was established through detailed molecular biophysics and biochemistry assays. These agents, known as 'flexicates', are potential mimetics of α-helical peptides in cancer treatment, exhibiting antimicrobial and antitumor effects. The flexicates have positive impacts on the thermal stability of DNA duplexes containing bulges, which means that the flexicates interact with the duplexes containing bulges, and that these interactions stabilize the secondary structures of these duplexes. Notably, the stabilising effect of the flexicates increases with the size of the bulge, the maximal stabilization is observed for the duplexes containing a bulge composed of at least three bases. The flexicates bind most preferentially to the bulges composed of pyrimidines flanked on both sides also by pyrimidines. It is suggested that it is so because these bulges exhibit greatest conformational variability in comparison with other combinations of bases in the bulge loop and bases flanking the bulge. Finally, the results indicate that there is only one dominant binding site for the flexicates on the DNA and RNA bulges and that the flexicates bind directly to the bulge or in its close proximity. It is also shown that the flexicates effectively bind to RNA duplexes containing the bulged region of HIV-1 TAR RNA.

Molecular Spin Crossover in Slow Motion: Light-Induced Spin-State Transitions in Trigonal Prismatic Iron(II) Complexes

A straightforward access is provided to iron(II) complexes showing exceedingly slow spin-state interconversion by utilizing trigonal-prismatic directing ligands (L(n)) of the extended-tripod type. A detailed analysis of the interrelations between complex structure (X-ray diffraction, density functional theory) and electronic character (SQUID magnetometry, Mössbauer spectroscopy, UV/vis spectroscopy) of the iron(II) center in mononuclear complexes [FeL(n)] reveals spin crossover to occur along a coupled breathing/torsion reaction coordinate, shuttling the complex between the octahedral low-spin state and the trigonal-prismatic high-spin state along Bailar's trigonal twist pathway. We associate both the long spin-state lifetimes in the millisecond domain close to room temperature and the substantial barriers against thermal scrambling (Ea ≈ 33 kJ mol(-1), from Arrhenius analysis) with stereochemical constraints. In particular, the topology of the κ(6)N ligands controls the temporary and structural dynamics during spin crossover.

Crystal structures of three mercury(II) complexes [HgCl2 L] where L is a bidentate chiral imine ligand

The crystal structures of three complexes [HgCl2 L] were determined, namely, (S)-(+)-di-chlorido-[1-phenyl-N-(pyridin-2-yl-methyl-idene)ethyl-amine-κ(2) N,N']mercury(II), [HgCl2(C14H14N2)], (S)-(+)-di-chlorido-[1-(4-methyl-phen-yl)-N-(pyridin-2-yl-methyl-idene)ethyl-amine-κ(2) N,N']mercury(II), [HgCl2(C15H16N2)], and (1S,2S,3S,5R)-(+)-di-chlorido-[N-(pyridin-2-yl-methyl-idene)isopino-camph-eyl-amine-κ(2) N,N']mercury(II), [HgCl2(C16H22N2)]. The complexes consist of a bidentate chiral imine ligand coordinating to HgCl2 and crystallize with four independent mol-ecules in the first complex and two independent mol-ecules in the other two. The coordination geometry of mercury is tetra-hedral, with strong distortion towards a disphenoidal geometry, as a consequence of the imine bite angle being close to 70°. The Cl-Hg-Cl angles span a large range, 116.0 (2)-138.3 (3)°, which is related to the aggregation state in the crystals. For small Cl-Hg-Cl angles, complexes have a tendency to form dimers, via inter-molecular Hg⋯Cl contacts. These contacts become less significant in the third complex, which features the largest intra-molecular Cl-Hg-Cl angles.

mer and fac isomerism in tris chelate diimine metal complexes

In this perspective, we highlight the issue of meridional (mer) and facial (fac) orientation of asymmetrical diimines in tris-chelate transition metal complexes. Diimine ligands have long been the workhorse of coordination chemistry, and whilst there are now good strategies to isolate materials where the inherent metal centered chirality is under almost complete control, and systematic methodologies to isolate heteroleptic complexes, the conceptually simple geometrical isomerism has not been widely investigated. In systems where the two donor atoms are significantly different in terms of the σ-donor and π-accepting ability, the fac isomer is likely to be the thermodynamic product. For the diimine complexes with two trigonal planar nitrogen atoms there is much more subtlety to the system, and external factors such as the solvent, lattice packing and the various steric considerations play a delicate role in determining the observed and isolable product. In this article we discuss the possibilities to control the isomeric ratio in labile systems, consider the opportunities to separate inert complexes and discuss the observed differences in their spectroscopic properties. Finally we report on the ligand orientation in supramolecular systems where facial coordination leads to simple regular structures such as helicates and tetrahedra, but the ability of the ligand system to adopt a mer orientation enables self-assembled structures of considerable beauty and complexity.

Anticancer metallohelices: nanomolar potency and high selectivity

New optically pure helicate-like architectures are extremely active against cancer cell lines, with IC₅₀ values as low as 40 nM, but nearly three orders of magnitude less active against healthy cells. There is also low toxicity to microbes and amoeba.

A range of new helicate-like architectures have been prepared via highly diastereoselective self-assembly using readily accessible starting materials. Six pairs of enantiomers [Fe₂L₃]Cl₄·nH₂O (L = various bidentate ditopic ligands NN–NN) show very good water solubility and stability. Their activity against a range of cancer cell lines in vitro is structure-dependent and gives IC₅₀ values as low as 40 nM. In an isogenic pair of HCT116 colorectal cancer cells, preferential activity was observed against cell lines that lack functional p53. Selectivity is also excellent, and against healthy human retinal pigment epithelial (ARPE19) and lung fibroblast (WI38) cells IC₅₀ values are nearly three orders of magnitude higher. Cisplatin is unselective in the same tests. The compounds also appear to have low general toxicity in a number of models: there is little if any antimicrobial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli; Acanthamoeba polyphaga is unaffected at 25 μg mL^–1 (12.5 μM); Manduca sexta larvae showed clear evidence of systemic distribution of the drug, and rather than any observation of adverse effects they exhibited a significant mean weight gain vs. controls. Investigation of the mode of action revealed no significant interaction of the molecules with DNA, and stimulation of substantial cell death by apoptosis.

Efficient Biomimetic Hydroxylation Catalysis with a Bis(pyrazolyl)imidazolylmethane Copper Peroxide Complex

Bis(pyrazolyl)methane ligands are excellent components of model complexes used to investigate the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase. Combining the N donors 3-tert-butylpyrazole and 1-methylimidazole results in a ligand that is capable of stabilising a (μ-η(2) :η(2) )-dicopper(II) core that resembles the active centre of tyrosinase. UV/Vis spectroscopy shows blueshifted UV bands in comparison to other known peroxo complexes, due to donor competition from different ligand substituents. This effect was investigated with the help of theoretical calculations, including DFT and natural transition orbital analysis. The peroxo complex acts as a catalyst capable of hydroxylating a variety of phenols by using oxygen. Catalytic conversion with the non-biological phenolic substrate 8-hydroxyquinoline resulted in remarkable turnover numbers. In stoichiometric reactions, substrate-binding kinetics was observed and the intrinsic hydroxylation constant, kox , was determined for five phenolates. It was found to be the fastest hydroxylation model system determined so far, reaching almost biological activity. Furthermore, Hammett analysis proved the electrophilic character of the reaction. This sheds light on the subtle role of donor strength and its influence on hydroxylation activity.

Shape-selective recognition of DNA abasic sites by metallohelices: inhibition of human AP endonuclease 1

Loss of a base in DNA leading to creation of an abasic (AP) site leaving a deoxyribose residue in the strand, is a frequent lesion that may occur spontaneously or under the action of various physical and chemical agents. Progress in the understanding of the chemistry and enzymology of abasic DNA largely relies upon the study of AP sites in synthetic duplexes. We report here on interactions of diastereomerically pure metallo-helical 'flexicate' complexes, bimetallic triple-stranded ferro-helicates [Fe2(NN-NN)3](4+) incorporating the common NN-NN bis(bidentate) helicand, with short DNA duplexes containing AP sites in different sequence contexts. The results show that the flexicates bind to AP sites in DNA duplexes in a shape-selective manner. They preferentially bind to AP sites flanked by purines on both sides and their binding is enhanced when a pyrimidine is placed in opposite orientation to the lesion. Notably, the Λ-enantiomer binds to all tested AP sites with higher affinity than the Δ-enantiomer. In addition, the binding of the flexicates to AP sites inhibits the activity of human AP endonuclease 1, which is as a valid anticancer drug target. Hence, this finding indicates the potential of utilizing well-defined metallo-helical complexes for cancer chemotherapy.

Optical recognition of alkyl nitrile by a homochiral iron(ii) spin crossover host

In this work, a chiral mononuclear spin crossover host1·MeCN was found to have the ability to optically recognize lactonitrile (LN) and methylglutaronitrile (MGN).

Diastereoselective synthesis of O symmetric heterometallic cubic cages

Enantiopure chiral cubic cages have been diastereoselectively synthesized, showing CD enhancement as a result of configuration rigidity.