Combination of orthogonal supramolecular interactions in polymeric architectures.

Supramolecular polymers represent a highly interesting approach towards new "smart materials". A recent strategy includes the combination of different "orthogonal" non-covalent binding sites within one polymer system. Different functionalities can be introduced in a highly defined way by controlled self-assembly processes.

High molecular weight supramolecular polymers containing both terpyridine metal complexes and ureidopyrimidinone quadruple hydrogen-bonding units in the main chain.

Using a hydroxy-functionalized terpyridine as initiator, a poly(epsilon-caprolactone) containing one terpyridine endgroup was prepared by tin octanoate-catalyzed controlled ring-opening polymerization. The omega-hydroxy group of this polymer was subsequently reacted with an isocyanato-ureidopyrimidinone, resulting for the first time in polymers bearing a metal-coordinating ligand on the one and a hydrogen-bonding unit on the other chain end. Hydrogen-bonded supramolecular dimers were shown to be present in chloroform solution.

Combined biotin-terpyridine systems: a new versatile bridge between biology, polymer science and metallo-supramolecular chemistry.

Biotin, a well-known binding unit for the proteins avidin and streptavidin, was combined with the chelating ligand terpyridine via polymeric and nonpolymeric spacers. An omega-amino-functionalized terpyridyl-poly(ethylene glycol) was prepared and utilized for complex formation with iron(II), nickel(II), and ruthenium(II) ions. The biocompatibility of the complex formation was investigated in aqueous media.

Recent developments in the supramolecular chemistry of terpyridine-metal complexes.

This critical review describes recent developments in the field of supramolecular chemistry of terpyridine-metal complexes. The synthesis and characteristics of single as well as multiple homo- and heterometallic complexes is discussed. Furthermore, complexes containing fullerenes, biological building blocks, extended aggregates of different architectures as well as rings are presented.