De novo endo-functionalized organic cages as cooperative multi-hydrogen-bond-donating catalysts

Abstract

Two endo-functionalized organic cages as oxyanion hole mimics were achieved via dynamic covalent chemistry, which exhibit good size selectivity, catalytic activity and broad substrate scopes for Friedel–Crafts reactions. The modular character of the synthesis provides an easy way to modify the size, shape and inner function of the molecular cavity.