Supramolecular Coordination: Self-Assembly of Finite Two- and Three-Dimensional Ensembles

Early coordination-driven self-assembly paradigms and more complex and discrete 2D and 3D supramolecular ensembles are reviewed. Work in this field focused on the development of rational methodologies for the self-assembly of predesigned systems along with their characterization. Multinuclear, high-resolution NMR and electrospray mass spectrometry are the primary and essential tools for proper characterization along with X-ray and more recently synchrotron X-ray methods. The most recent and arguably interesting applications have been in catalysis, use as microreactors and biological applications. Raymond and Bergman have exploited the cavities of self-assembled 3D cages for enzyme-like catalysis. Coordination-driven self-assembly will continue to be an active area of research and an important component of supramolecular chemistry and nanoscience.