Host-Guest Chemistry of a Bis-Calix[4]pyrrole Derivative Containing a trans/cis-Switchable Azobenzene Unit with Several Aliphatic Bis-Carboxylates

The azobenzene unit used as a photochemically and thermally switchable linker in the assembly of a bis-calix[4]pyrrole receptor provides a means to modulate the binding of bis-carboxylates of significant biological importance in cancer research. Conversely, the complexation of different bis-anionic guests has significant kinetic effects on both the photochemical and thermal trans/cis isomerization of the azobenzene unit.