Introducing defects into metal-seamed nanocapsules using mixed macrocycles

J Am Chem Soc. 2013 Aug 21;135(33):12184-7. doi: 10.1021/ja404392m. Epub 2013 Aug 12.

Abstract

The synthesis and single-crystal X-ray diffraction structure of a dimeric zinc-seamed nanocapsule using a mixed pyrogallol/resorcinol[4]arene are presented. The use of "mixed" macrocycles results in an incomplete seam of coordination bonds around the nanocapsule's typically octa-metalated belt. The self-assembly of the nanocapsule occurs such that the single resorcinol moiety of each macrocycle aligns transversely. This yields a hepta-metalated capsule where the defect occurs in such a way as to provide minimal disruption to the overall structure of the nanocapsule.