Homochiral coordination polymeric gel: Zn2+-induced conformational changes leading to J-aggregated helical fibres formation

A novel chiral coordination polymeric gel based on an amino acid derived symmetrical ligand, specific base, and Zn2+ has been described. Zn2+ induced conformational reorganization in the ligand leads to gelation via J-aggregated helical fibres. The vital role played by pi-pi stacking in gelation has been monitored by fluorescence and NMR spectroscopy.