Abstract

Herein we disclose the results of our investigations regarding the interactions between the biologically relevant nitrate oxoanion and several "two-wall" aryl-extended calix4pyrroles. There exists a clear relationship between the electronic nature of the aromatic walls of the calix4pyrroles and the stability of the nitrateâŠcalix4pyrrole complex. This suggests that NO3--� interactions have an important electrostatic component. We provide energetic estimates for the interaction of nitrate with several phenyl derivatives. Additionally, we report solid-state evidence for a preferred binding geometry of the nitrate anion included in the calix4pyrroles. Finally, the "two-wall" aryl-extended calix4pyrroles show excellent activity in ion transport through lipid-based lamellar membranes. Notably the best anion transporters are highly selective for transport of nitrate over other anions. © 2013 American Chemical Society.