Multi-responsive metal–organic lantern cages in solution

Soluble copper-based M4L4 lantern-type metal–organic cages bearing internal amines were synthesized. The solution state integrity of the paramagnetic metal–organic cages was demonstrated using NMR, DLS, MS, and AFM spectroscopy. 1D supramolecular pillars of pre-formed cages or covalent host–guest complexes selectively formed upon treatment with 4,4′-bipyridine and acetic anhydride, respectively.