Selective complexation of disaccharides by a novel D2-symmetrical receptor in protic solvent mixtures

The synthesis of an optically active, 1,1′-binaphtyl-derived cyclophane receptor with a preorganized central cavity lined with four anionic phosphodiester groups for ionic hydrogen bonding is described. In competitive protic solvent mixtures, this receptor forms stable 1:1 complexes with disaccharides whereas the smaller monosaccharides are not significantly bound.