Molecular networks in dynamic multilevel systems

ORRILLO, A. GASTON; ESCALANTE, ANDREA M.; MARTINEZ-AMEZAGA, MAITENA; CABEZUDO, IGNACIO L. E.; FURLAN, RICARDO L.E.

CHEMISTRY-A EUROPEAN JOURNAL

WILEY-V C H VERLAG GMBH

Año: 2018

0947-6539

Dynamic multilevel systems can be assembled from molecular building blocks through two or more reversible reactions that form covalent bonds. Molecular networks of dynamic multilevel systems can exhibit different connectivities between nodes. The design and creation of molecular networks in multilevel systems require to control the crossed reactivity of the functional groups (how to connect nodes) and the conditions of the reactions (when to connect nodes). In the recent years, the combination of orthogonal or communicating reactions, which can be simultaneous or individually activated, has produced a variety of systems which gave place to macrocycles and cages, as well as molecular motors and multicomponent architectures on surfaces. A given set of reactions can lead to systems with unique responsiveness, compositions and functions, as a result of the relative reactivities. In this concept article, different molecular networks from synthetic systems are discussed which can be produced by combinations of different reaction types. Moreover, applications of this chemistry are highlighted, and future perspectives are envisioned.