<italic>Meso</italic> position functionalized calix[<italic>n</italic>]arenes and pillar[<italic>n</italic>]arenes and their applications

Abstract

With the rapid development of macrocyclic chemistry, the functionalization of calix[n]arenes, pillar[n]arenes and other methylene linked macrocycles at their meso positions has drawn much attention. These modified macrocyclic derivatives have new functions on the basis of not changing their original properties. Not only more functional groups can be introduced, but also their applications, such as drug delivery, chemical detection, fluorescent system fabrication, are further improved due to the self-assembly behavior of host and guest. Based on the comprehensive analysis of the current research on the modification of calix[n]arenes and pillar[n]arenes at meso position, this review systematically summarizes the modification methods, the changes of the modified structures, and applications. The opportunities and challenges of its future development have been discussed.