Synthetic pores with sticky π-clamps

In this report, we describe design, synthesis, evaluation and molecular dynamics simulations of synthetic multifunctional pores with π-acidic naphthalenediimide clamps. Experimental evidence is provided for the formation of unstable but inert, heterogeneous and acid-insensitive dynamic tetrameric pores that are sensitive to base and ionic strength. Blockage experiments reveal that the introduction of aromatic electron donor–acceptor interactions provides access to the selective recognition of π-basic intercalators within the pore. This breakthrough is important for the application of synthetic pores as multianalyte sensors.