Host-Guest Chemistry of a Bis-Calix[4]pyrrole Derivative Containing a trans/cis-Switchable Azobenzene Unit with Several Aliphatic Bis-Carboxylates

The azobenzene unit used as a photochemically and thermally switchable linker in the assembly of a bis‐calix[4]pyrrole receptor provides a means to modulate the binding of bis‐carboxylates of significant biological importance in cancer research. Conversely, the complexation of different bis‐anionic guests has significant kinetic effects on both the photochemical and thermal trans/cis isomerization of the azobenzene unit. Bind and switch: A trans/cis‐switchable azobenzene unit of the bis‐calix[4]pyrrole receptor (see scheme) provides a means to modulate the binding of bis‐carboxylates of significant biological importance in cancer research. Conversely, the complexation of different bis‐anionic guests has significant kinetic effects on both the photochemical and thermal trans/cis isomerization.