Neutral guests complexation with calix[4]arenes preorganised by intramolecular McMurry reaction

The introduction of two aromatic aldehyde moieties into the lower rim of calix[4]arenes led to the precursors that were intramolecularly bridged in the presence of low-valent titanium agents (the McMurry reaction). These compounds, preorganised in the cone conformation, represent novel receptors with good complexation ability towards suitable neutral guest molecules both in solution and in the solid state. The influence of preorganisation and overall rigidity of receptor to the complexation process has been studied.