Molecules (Aug 2024)

Deep-Cavity Calix[4]naphth[4]arene Macrocycles: Synthesis, Conformational Features, and Solid-State Structures

  • Paolo Della Sala,
  • Veronica Iuliano,
  • Margherita De Rosa,
  • Carmen Talotta,
  • Rocco Del Regno,
  • Placido Neri,
  • Silvano Geremia,
  • Neal Hickey,
  • Carmine Gaeta

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29174142
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 29, no. 17
p. 4142

Abstract

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We recently introduced calix[n]naphth[m]arenes as a novel class of deep-cavity hybrid macrocycles constituted by phenol (n) and naphthalene (m) units. In this study, we report the synthesis, conformational analysis, spectroscopic properties, and solid-state structures of calix[4]naphth[4]arene (C4N4) and its permethylated analog (C4N4-Me), thereby expanding the calix[n]naphth[m]arene family. C4N4 was synthesized through a 2 + 2 fragment coupling macrocyclization under acidic conditions, where the solvent played a crucial role in selectively forming the C4N4 derivative. The X-ray structure of C4N4 reveals a chair-like 1,2,3,4-alternate conformation characterized by two opposing 3/4-cone moieties stabilized by intramolecular hydrogen bonds. In contrast, the X-ray structure of C4N4-Me exhibits a 1,3,5,7-alternate conformation.

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