Polycaps: reversibly formed polymeric capsules.

Castellano, R K; Rudkevich, D M; Rebek, J · Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A · 1997

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Described are assemblies consisting of polymeric capsules, "polycaps," formed from two calix[4]arene tetraureas covalently connected at their lower rims. In these structures self-assembly leads to reversibly formed capsule sites along a chain, reminiscent of beads on a string. Their dynamic behavior is characterized by 1H NMR spectroscopy through encapsulation of guest species, reversible polymerization, and the formation of sharply defined hybrid capsules.