Work

Polyanionic Receptors for Carboxylates in Water

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Receptors for carboxylate anions have many possible biomedical applications, including mimicry of the vancomycin group of antibiotics. However, binding carboxylates in water, the biological solvent, is highly challenging due to the hydrophilicity of these polar anions. Here we report, for the first time, the recognition of simple carboxylates such as acetate and formate in water by synthetic receptors with charge‐neutral binding sites. The receptors are solubilised by polyanionic side‐chains which, remarkably, do not preclude anion binding. The tricyclic structures feature two identical binding sites linked by polyaromatic bridges, capable of folding into closed, twisted conformations. This folding is hypothesised to preorganise the structures for anion recognition, mimicking the process which generates many protein binding sites. The architecture is suitable for elaboration into enclosed structures with potential for selective recognition of biologically relevant carboxylates.

Source: Angewandte Chemie

DOI: 10.1002/ange.202413505

Authors: Xudong Ren, Alister J. Flint, Daniel Austin, Anthony P. Davis

Institution: University of Bristol

Language: English

Topic: Supramolecular Chemistry and Complexes

Subfield: Organic Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,250

Funders: China Scholarship Council, EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Technology Enhanced Chemical Synthesis