The crystal structure, self-assembly, DNA-binding and cleavage studies of the [2]pseudorotaxane composed of cucurbit[6]uril

The [2]pseudorotaxanes of cucurbit[6]uril with guest molecule 1,6-bis(imidazol-1-yl)hexane (BIMH) were synthesized and characterized by ESI-MS spectrometry, 1H NMR spectra, and X-ray diffraction crystallography. The influence of different anions on self-assembly in solid-state was discussed by X-ray diffraction crystallography. However, more interestingly, and to our amazement, we discovered the CB[6]/BIMH [2]pseudorotaxane exhibiting efficient cleavage of pBR322 DNA in physiological environment. The cleavage mechanism were studied by fluorescence spectra and the hydrolysis of bis(2,4-dinitrophenyl)-phosphate (BDNPP). From DNA-binding mode being electrostatic force and the first-order kinetics equation, we prove indirectly that the mechanism may be hydrolytic cleavage.