Molecular Engineering of Free-Base Porphyrins as Ligands—The N−H⋅⋅⋅X Binding Motif in Tetrapyrroles

Abstract

The core N−H units of planar porphyrins are often inaccessible to forming hydrogen-bonding complexes with acceptor molecules. This is due to the fact that the amine moieties are “shielded” by the macrocyclic system, impeding the formation of intermolecular H-bonds. However, methods exist to modulate the tetrapyrrole conformations and to reshape the vector of N−H orientation outwards, thus increasing their availability and reactivity. Strategies include the use of porpho(di)methenes and phlorins (calixphyrins), as well as saddle-distorted porphyrins. The former form cavities due to interruption of the aromatic system. The latter are highly basic systems and capable of binding anions and neutral molecules via N−H⋅⋅⋅X-type H-bonds. This Review discusses the role of porphyrin(oid) ligands in various coordination-type complexes, means to access the core for hydrogen bonding, the concept of conformational control, and emerging applications, such as organocatalysis and sensors.