An Unlockable–Relockable Iron Cage by Subcomponent Self‐Assembly

Abstract

In irons bound: Linear diamine and formylpyridine subcomponents form a tetrahedral cage with iron(II) in water (see scheme). This cage traps hydrophobic guests with high specificity within a rigid cavity, isolating them from the aqueous environment. The cage may be broken, releasing the guest, upon the addition of a triamine. It may also be unlocked by adding acid, allowing the guest to be reversibly released until base is added, relocking it within. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2002/2008/z803066_s.pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.