Synthesis 2016; 48(03): 313-328
DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1560362
review
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Self-Assembled Supramolecular Structures as Catalysts for Reactions Involving Cationic Transition States

Lorenzo Catti
Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstraße 4, 85747 Garching, Germany   Email: konrad.tiefenbacher@tum.de
,
Qi Zhang
Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstraße 4, 85747 Garching, Germany   Email: konrad.tiefenbacher@tum.de
,
Konrad Tiefenbacher*
Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstraße 4, 85747 Garching, Germany   Email: konrad.tiefenbacher@tum.de
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Received: 11 September 2015

Accepted after revision: 05 October 2015

Publication Date:
20 November 2015 (online)


Abstract

Self-assembled supramolecular structures represent easily accessible systems for the study of enzyme-like catalysis. The hydrophobic cavities of the assemblies provide a distinct chemical environment that can lead to unusual chemo- and stereoselectivities. This review summarizes the application of such host structures in the catalysis of reactions involving cationic transition states and includes detailed discussion of mechanisms and substrate–host interactions. The literature up to April 2015 is covered.

1 Introduction

2 Molecular Capsules: Structures and Background

3 Catalyzed Reactions

4 Summary and Outlook