Multi-functional imidazolium dendrimers based on thiacalix[4]arenes: self-assembly, catalysis and DNA binding

For the first time, dendrimers based on thiacalix[4]arenes bearing imidazolium dendrons on one side and alkyl fragments on another side of the macrocyclic platform and symmetrical dendrimers with four dendrons on both sides were synthesized. Dendrons consist of gallic acid-based branches functionalized with imidazolium and triazolium groups. The physicochemical properties of the dendrimers such as micellar concentration (CMC), size, and solubilization capacity were measured. Novel dendrimers exhibit high binding efficiency with calf thymus DNA (ctDNA) as revealed by fluorescence quenching of the DNA-EtBr complex in the presence of macrocycles. Dendrimers have been used as supports for Pd nanoparticles, which show high catalytic activity for the reduction of nitroaromatic compounds.