Novel ionophores with 2n-crown-n topology: anion sensing via pure aliphatic C-H···anion hydrogen bonding

Org Lett. 2014 Jan 17;16(2):334-7. doi: 10.1021/ol402819m. Epub 2013 Dec 31.

Abstract

A series of novel coronands having a 2n-crown-n topology based on trioxane (6-crown-3) derivatives are designed and characterized. These neutral hosts can sense anions through pure aliphatic C-H hydrogen bonding (HB) in condensed phases due to the unusual topology of 2n-crown-n. C-H bonds are strongly polarized by two adjacent oxygen atoms in this scaffold. These hosts provide a rare opportunity to modulate anion binding strength by changing the electronic nature of aliphatic C-H bonds and offer ease of synthesis.

MeSH terms

  • Anions
  • Crown Ethers / chemical synthesis
  • Crown Ethers / chemistry*
  • Crystallography, X-Ray
  • Hydrogen
  • Hydrogen Bonding
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Molecular Structure
  • Stereoisomerism

Substances

  • Anions
  • Crown Ethers
  • Hydrogen