Computational and ion mobility MS study of (all-S)-cyclohexylhemicucurbit[6]uril structure and complexes

Abstract

A computational study of (all-S)-cyclohexylhemicucurbit[6]uril and its complexes with anions (Cl⁻, Br⁻, I⁻ and HCOO⁻), the proton (H⁺) and non-dissociated acid (HCl, HBr, HI and HCOOH) guests was performed. The geometries of guest–host complexes were optimized via density functional theory using the BP86 functional, SV(P) basis set and Stuttgart pseudopotentials for iodide. Binding affinities and their trends were evaluated at the BP86/TZVPD level of theory. In addition, the quantum theory of atoms in molecules was used to gain insight into guest–host interactions. A computational study in the gas phase and ion-mobility mass-spectrometry analysis revealed that the studied macrocycle formed inclusion complexes with anions. Protonation of the macrocycle is preferred at the nitrogen atom pointing inside of the cavity. In the studied conditions, non-dissociated acids formed complexes at the oxygen atom pointing outside of the macrocycle.