Electron-Deficient Confined Space: Synthesis and Recognition Properties of a Covalent Molecular Cage Built upon Naphthalene Diimides and Benzene Triimides

Organic Letters 2026 Open access

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Authors: Daryna Shymon, Élise Antonetti, Sabine Chevallier‐Michaud, Paola Nava, Alexandre Martinez, Yoann Cotelle
DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.5c05115
Cited by: 1
References: 24

Abstract

The synthesis of neutral-electron-deficient molecular containers is highly challenging. Nonetheless, the presence of π-acidic units within the confined space of a molecular cage should enable strong anion binding through synergistic anion-π interactions. Here, we report the synthesis of a neutral molecular cage containing five electron-deficient units: two benzene triimide units as roof and floor and three naphthalene diimide units as walls. The study of the cage's conformational isomerism is presented together with the high affinity of the receptor for acetate.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Supramolecular Chemistry and Complexes Molecular Sensors and Ion Detection Synthesis and Properties of Aromatic Compounds

Publication details

Journal / source
Organic Letters
Publisher
American Chemical Society (ACS)
Volume
28
Issue
4
Pages
1312–1316
Publication date
20 January 2026
Language
EN