ASSEMBLY OF SELF-COMPLEMENTARY STRUCTURES

自组装是生物大分子的共同特征之一，

Self-assembly is one of the common features of biological macromolecule, and frequently the super structures are made of self-complementary modules. Here complementarity refers to sizes, shapes and chemical surfaces involved in molecular recognition phenomena. In this proposal we explore the synthesis of self-complementary systems from small molecule modules whose geometry and orientation of recognition surface permits assembly into closed-shell superstructures. In this our premise is that the assembly process is most likely to yield to model systems; molecules that can be synthesized interpreted and manipulated with a high degree of structural certainty. We intend to prepare several simple modules and determine how their assembly into host species is dependent on their recognition surfaces, shapes and the presence of their respective guests. The long-term goals are to transport across membranes with these molecules, and their use as reaction chambers for the catalysis of biorelevant processes. The shorter term goals involve the application of results in two dimensional hydrogen bond arrays to the synthesis of three dimensional structures capable of reversible assembly and inclusion phenomena.