From new molecular science to new supramolecular science with macrocyclic polyamines

Abstract

Exploitation of saturated macrocyclic polyamines has led to the discovery of numerous novel functions and new molecules such as 1) unique proton sponge properties; 2) uptake of biological polyanions; 3) peptide-like metal uptake properties; 4) stabilization of unusual oxidation states of metal ions (e.g., CuIII, NiIII); 5) novel uptake and activation of O 2 by new NiII-macrocyclic complexes; 6) a new synthetic pathway to functionalize macrocyclic polyamines; 7) the first gold(III) complex that is a new candidate for gold-plating agents; 8) intrinsic zinc(II) properties pertinent to zinc enzymes; 9) selective recognition of thymine by ZnII complexes; and 10) new cage supermolecules. These newly discovered molecules and properties have opened up a new field of supramolecular science. © 2002 The Pharmaceutical Society of Japan.