Molecular Recognition Using Foldamers

Self-organizing polymers (foldamers) that are capable of controlled molecular recognition are extensively investigated in supramolecular chemistry. The predictable shape and the modular synthesis of foldamers make them excellent tools with which to design and construct complementary interaction surfaces required for molecular recognition. The appropriate choice of monomeric unit patterns can lead to oligomers that recognize diverse interaction partners: cavities for small-molecule entrapment or the projection of functional groups from a well-defined scaffold to mimic complex structures such as protein surfaces. The construction of foldamers for protein recognition is a very attractive strategy for medicinal chemistry applications with promising results. In this article, foldamers that recognize small molecules, biomacromolecules, and membranes will be addressed with a brief general review of the structures and design strategies.