Conformationally Preorganized Cage Enables Enhanced Anion Binding in Water

Key Points

• The preorganized hexacationic cage significantly enhances anion binding, especially for hydrated anions like Cl-.
• Compared to its less bulky counterpart, the more rigid cavity allows for stronger interactions with anions.
• Self-assembly was achieved quantitatively through dynamic bonds and steric preorganization of reaction sites.
• This study implies potential advancements in chemical sensing technologies using designed molecular cages.