Molecular recognition of organophosphorus compounds in water and inhibition of their toxicity to acetylcholinesterase

Molecular tubes with hydrogen bonding donors in their deep hydrophobic cavities are able to selectively bind organophosphorus compounds in water through hydrogen bonding and the hydrophobic effect. They can also be used as a fluorescent sensor for nerve agent simulants and as an inhibitor to reduce the toxicity of paraoxon to acetylcholinesterase.