Trimeric Cyclic Assemblies of Calix[4]arene-Tethered Bismerocyanines

One ring to bind them: A cyclic complex containing three calixarene–bismerocyanine conjugates self‐assembles by the pairing of chromophores (see picture). A simple mathematical model is introduced for the trimolecular association, and the potential of dipolar aggregation of merocyanine dyes as a directional and specific supramolecular binding motif is demonstrated. (Calixarenes: green; merocyanines: C pale blue, N dark blue, O red).