Host-guest chemistry of dendritic molecules

In this chapter we will discuss the contribution of dendritic macromolecules to the field of supramolecular host-guest chemistry. Since the first publications on dendrimers more than two decades ago, their properties as molecular recognition compounds have been discussed many times. A brief introduction to the common host-guest interactions in the traditional supramolecular field is accompanied by a short overview of specific properties of these highly branched, three-dimensional macromolecules. Emphasis will be placed on the existence of internal voids in the dendritic interior. Subsequently, an overview will be given of the reported host-guest systems based on dendritic molecules. The host-guest systems discussed are arranged by type of interactions: from topological encapsulation to electrostatic, hydrophobic or hydrogen-bonding interactions. This review will emphasize contributions in which the pre-organized three-dimensional dendritic structure and the high local concentrations of sites display cooperative effects and which could be of interest towards future applications.