Aromatic interactions

Aromatic interactions are some of the key forces governing molecular recognition processes. In this review, a theoretical model of interaction between aromatic rings and computational approaches to predicting the properties of aromatic complexes are discussed. Experimental work on these interactions in the gas phase, solid state, proteins and DNA is briefly reviewed. Progress in the study of aromatic interactions in synthetic supramolecular systems regarding the design of systematic studies of non-covalent functional group interactions is discussed. Results of quantitative measurements of specific functional group interactions in both biological and synthetic systems are presented. The potential applications of detailed knowledge of aromatic interactions are highlighted with some examples of these interactions in the development of new functional molecules.