Dynamic Behavior of Covalent Organic Cages

Discrete, large, covalent organic cages have recently been constructed by utilizing various types of dynamic covalent bond formation. The reversibility of bond formation can provide an opportunity to exhibit unique dynamic behavior; however, the transformation of such rigid cages to other structures remains challenging. To clarify the current status of this emerging research field, this Concept article gives an overview of recent progress of the dynamic behavior of covalent organic cages by classifying them into four types of transformation, namely, dimerization into the interlocked cages, transformation into different cage structures, exchange of components, and disassembly. The driving forces of such dynamic behavior and problems to be solved are also highlighted. Capture and release: The dynamic behavior of covalent organic cages has emerged as a new field of supramolecular chemistry. Herein, this behavior is classified into four types: dimerization into interlocked cages, transformation into different cage structures, exchange of components, and disassembly (see figure). The characteristics and driving forces of dynamic behavior, as well as problems to be solved, are highlighted.