Helix-dimer-random-coil thermal switching process of ethynylhelicene heptamer highly sensitive to its environment

An acyclic ethynylhelicene heptamer reversibly switches its structure in solution between a helix dimer at low temperatures and random coils at high temperatures. The structural change can be repeated by alternating heating and cooling. The process monitored by CD exhibited various patterns of Delta epsilon/time profiles depending on changes in temperature, concentration, and solvent type. This single compound provides diverse outputs upon thermal input.