Applications of supramolecular capsules derived from resorcin[4]arenes, calix[n]arenes and metallo-ligands: from biology to catalysis

Supramolecular architectures developed after the initial studies of Cram, Lehn and Pedersen have become structurally complex but fascinating. In this context, supramolecular capsules based on resorcin[4]arenes, calix[n]arenes or metal-ligand structures are dynamic assemblies inspired by biological systems. The reversible formation of these assemblies, combined with the possibility to modify their dimensions and shapes in the presence of a guest (concepts of reversibility and adaptivity) make them similar to biological macromolecules, such as proteins and enzymes. The small space inside a supramolecular capsule is characterized by different properties compared to the bulk solution. This review describes concrete applications of capsular supramolecular self-assemblies in the biomedical field, in catalysis and in material science.