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Updated: Jul 3, 2026

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Published on: March 24, 2018
Cationic calix[4]arenes as anion-selective ionophores
Irene Izzo1, Sabina Licen, Nakia Maulucci
1Department of Chemistry, University of Salerno, Via Ponte Don Melillo, I-84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy. iizzo@unisa.it
This study shows that 1,3-Alternate cationic calix[4]arene selectively transports protons and halogens. This compound also exhibits antiproliferative effects against specific cancer cells.
Area of Science:
- Supramolecular Chemistry
- Chemical Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Calixarenes are macrocyclic compounds with diverse applications in host-guest chemistry.
- Proton and halogen transport are crucial biological processes.
- Selective antiproliferative agents are needed for cancer therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the transport capabilities of 1,3-Alternate cationic calix[4]arene.
- To evaluate the antiproliferative activity of this calixarene derivative.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis and characterization of 1,3-Alternate cationic calix[4]arene.
- Proton and halogen symport transport assays.
- In vitro antiproliferation assays using J774.A1 cancer cells.
Main Results:
- 1,3-Alternate cationic calix[4]arene demonstrated high selectivity for proton/halogens symport transport.
- The compound exhibited significant antiproliferative activity against murine monocyte/macrophage J774.A1 cancer cells.
Conclusions:
- 1,3-Alternate cationic calix[4]arene is a promising candidate for developing selective ion transporters.
- This calixarene derivative shows potential as an antiproliferative agent for cancer treatment.
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