IntroductionThe basic concepts of selection experiments with dynamic combinatorial libraries ( DCL s) were articulated more than 10 years ago (see Chapter 1 ). Since then, a number of applications have emerged. This includes the discovery new enzyme inhibitors, receptors, and catalysts, as well as the synthesis of novel materials such as responsive gels and polymers (see Chapters 2 -5 ). A recent addition to the list of applications is the utilization of dynamic combinatorial chemistry ( DCC ) for analytical purposes. This chapter summarizes the main ideas and results in this area.The concentrations of the different members of a DCL depend on the physical and chemical environment of the respective system (pH, solvent, concentration of target molecules, etc.). The library composition is therefore a characteristic feature of the respective environment. If the DCL composition can be transduced into a signal output, it is possible to use the DCL as a sensor. Typically, DCLs are analyzed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy or high -performance liquid chromatography. For sensing purposes, however, faster and cheaper analysis methods such as fl uorescence or ultraviolet -visible ( UV -Vis ) spectroscopy are preferred. These techniques can be used if the DCL is composed of compounds with different color or fl uorescence properties (Figure 7.1 ).For a DCL sensor of this kind, the information about the analyte is distributed over the entire spectrum. The spectrum therefore represents a " fi ngerprint " of the analyte. To correlate the spectral changes with the analyte properties of interest (identity, quantity, purity), it is advantageous to use multivariate analyses techniques. In this regard, a DCL sensor is related to sensor arrays [1,2] . However, contrary to sensor arrays with independent sensor units, a DCL sensor is comprised of compounds that are connected by exchange reactions. Furthermore, the various sensors of an array have to be analyzed separately, whereas a single UV -Vis or fl uorescence measurement is suffi cient for a DCL sensor.
Dynamic Combinatorial Chemistry. Edited by Joost N. H. Reek and Sijbren Otto