Synthesis and self-assembly studies of beta-cyclodextrin derivatives

ORGN 458

Ruiyun Guo, Degang Wang, and Zhonghua Peng, pengz@umkc.edu. Department of Chemistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 5009 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64110
Cyclodextrins (CDs) are among the most captivating molecules, not only due to their unique and appealing hollow conical cylindrical structures, but also due to their ubiquitous molecular-encapsulation properties which have found broad applications as drug delivery systems, enzyme mimics, molecular receptors, and chemical and biological sensors. More recently, CD rings have been used to encapsulate individual π-conjugated oligomers or polymers, leading to not only improved solubility in polar media but also a step closer to realize insulated molecular wires. Here we report our efforts in preparing organic β-conjugated systems covalently attached with CD rings. Their self-assembly properties are also presented.