Applications of chiral C-3-symmetric molecules

Throughout history symmetry and chirality have inspired artists and scientists alike. Given that rotational axes are the only elements of symmetry compatible with chirality, it is not surprising that C-2- and C-3-symmetrical molecules have attracted considerable attention. In recent years, the aesthetic appeal of C-2- symmetrical molecules has been translated into many widely-used applications some of which are of commercial importance by its exploitation in the area of asymmetric catalysis. In contrast, exploitation of the arguably greater aesthetic appeal of C-3-symmetric molecules is still in its infancy. This review, which surveys the applications of chiral C-3-symmetrical molecules in the areas of asymmetric catalysis, molecular recognition and nanoarchitecture, has been designed with a view to identifying some of the most promising areas of application of these very beautiful molecules.