Chloride Binding Modulated by Anion Receptors Bearing Tetrazine and Urea

Modulation and fine-tuning of the strength of weak interactions to bind anions are described in a series of synthetic receptors. The general design of the receptors includes both a urea motif and a tetrazine motif. The synthetic sequence towards three receptors is detailed. Impacts of H-bond strength and linker length between urea and tetrazine on chloride complexation are studied. Binding properties of the chloride anion are examined in both the ground and excited states using a panel of analytical methods (NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, UV/Visible spectroscopies, and fluorescence). A ranking of the receptors by complexation strength has been determined, allowing a better understanding of the structure-properties relationship on these compounds.

Automated summary

Synthetic receptors that modulate and fine-tune the strength of weak interactions to bind anions were studied. The receptors were designed with a urea and tetrazine motif. The impact of H-bond strength and linker length on chloride complexation was investigated, and the binding properties of chloride anions in both ground and excited states were examined using various analytical methods. A ranking of the receptors based on their complexation strength provided insights into the structure-properties relationship.