Host–guest chemistry
supramolecular structures held together other than by covalent bonds
In supramolecular chemistry, host–guest chemistry describes complexes composed of two or more molecules or ions held together in unique structural relationships by forces other than those of full covalent bonds. Host–guest chemistry therefore encompasses the idea of molecular recognition and interactions through non-covalent bonding, which is critical in maintaining the three-dimensional structure of large molecules, such as proteins, and is involved in many biological processes in which large molecules bind specifically but transiently to one another.
Although non-covalent interactions could be roughly divided into those with more electrostatic or dispersive contributions, there are a few commonly mentioned types of non-covalent interactions: ionic bonding, hydrogen bonding, van der Waals forces, and hydrophobic interactions.
Host–guest interaction has raised significant attention since it was discovered. Many biological processes and material designs require the host–guest interaction. There are several typical host molecules, such as cyclodextrin and crown ether.
Host molecules usually have a pore-like structure that is able to capture a guest molecule. Although called molecules, hosts and guests are often ions. The driving forces of the interaction vary, such as hydrophobic effect and van der Waals forces.
Binding between host and guest can be highly selective, in which case the interaction is called molecular recognition.
Begin with the source’s own compact description: “Host–guest chemistry” is supramolecular structures held together other than by covalent bonds. The dossier treats that line as a proposition to test through Host, guest and chemistry, not as a finished interpretation.
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