Nanoscale Borromean rings

Stuart J. Cantrill, Kelly S. Chichak, Andrea J. Peters, J. Fraser Stoddart*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

201 Scopus citations

Abstract

The molecular expression of topologically interesting structures represents a formidable challenge for synthetic chemists. The nontrivial link known as the Borromean rings has long been regarded as one of the most ambitious targets in this field. Of ancient provenance, this symbol comprises three interlocked rings in an inseparable union, but cut any one of the rings and the whole assembly unravels into three separate pieces. This Account delineates different strategies that can be applied to the formation of molecules possessing this distinctive topology, culminating with two successful syntheses of such compounds, thus cutting the Gordian knot of topological chemistry.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1-9
Number of pages9
JournalAccounts of chemical research
Volume38
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2005

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Chemistry(all)

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