Recognition of amides by new rigid calix[4]arene-based cavitands

The synthesis of new hosts specifically designed for the recognition of amides, characterized by two binding regions: a rigid calix[4]arene cavity and a sidearm, inserted at its rim, able to form strong hydrogen bonds, is described. The binding abilities of the new receptors toward amides of general structure (RCONRR3)-C-1-R-2 have been investigated in CDCl3 solution by H-1 NMR spectroscopy. When the additional binding site is the N-phenylureido group spaced by a methylene unit from the apolar cavity, binding constants up to 756 M-1 were measured. Neither the two separate potential binding sites, nor the model host, where the calix[4]arene skeleton is flexible show detectable binding ability toward the series of guests examined. The rigidity of the calix[4]arene apolar cavity is the key control element in determining the efficiency of these molecular recognition processes. The presence of NH groups in the guest controls the efficiency and selectivity of binding.