A Simple Strategy to Obtain Synthetic Ca ²⁺ ‐Dependent Lectin Mimics

Many lectins require a Ca2+ ion as structure directing co-factor to function carbohydrate binders. Such are implicated in various important biological processes such inflammation and infection, yet simple strategy mimic their is lacking. Herein, very dipyridyl ligand (6) reported that can organize around Pd2+ form the ring-like complexes [PdCl26] [Pd62]2+. In CD2Cl2 with 5 % dmso-d6, 6 does not associate glycosides, while its selectively bind β-n-octyl-glycosides over α-n-octyl-glycosides. The highest affinity (Ka1:1≈116 M−1) was found between dicationic [Pd62]2+ n-octyl-β-D-galactoside. Molecular modelling suggests common binding motif an role of C−H⋅⋅⋅π interactions two charge assisted bifurcated [N−H/C−H]+⋅⋅⋅O hydrogen bonds. Ligand metal thus provide proof-of-concept for mimicking Ca2+-dependent lectins.