Biomimetic molecular recognition of nucleotides by macrocyclic and cage hosts in water

Nucleotides are essential molecules in biology, acting as building blocks of DNA and RNA, energy carriers, and signalling molecules. They also function as coenzymes that support key metabolic and catalytic processes. This tutorial focuses on the development of synthetic receptors-especially macrocyclic and cage-like structures-that can selectively bind nucleotides. Studying these systems helps scientists better understand molecular recognition in biology and enables techniques like monitoring nucleotide levels in cells. The review emphasizes recent progress in receptor design, exploring their structures, binding mechanisms, and factors affecting selectivity, such as shape, conformation, and chemical interactions. It also covers experimental techniques and applications, highlighting how understanding noncovalent interactions can inform the development of new functional materials, catalysts, and drugs.