A simple molecule-based octastate switch

J Am Chem Soc. 2014 Oct 1;136(39):13510-3. doi: 10.1021/ja506320j. Epub 2014 Sep 18.

Abstract

Dithienylethene oxazolidine hybrid system connected through an isomerizable double bond exists under eight molecular states on demand. Combinations of electrocyclization of dithienylethene, Z/E isomerization and acid-base oxazolidine change cause selective addressabilities. Two intricate gated photochromic performances allow the execution of an 8-step molecular switch, which renders this molecular system the most complex known up to date.