Photoswitchable calix[4]arenes bearing dihydroacridine substituents at the upper rim

Eight new calix[4]arene host molecules bearing acridinium or the corresponding dihydroacridine substituents have been prepared. 1H NMR and electrochemical studies reveal that the acridinium substituents block the host cavity. Both photochemical and chemical switching between acridinium and dihydroacridine hosts are demonstrated.

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