The design of TACN-based molecular systems for different supramolecular functions

This article represents a critical review on the use of TACN (11,4,7-triazacyclononane) in supramolecular/coordination chemistry, highlighting three main concerns: 1) recognition and sensing supramolecular functions, with particular attention to metal complexes of TACN derivatives to develop chemical sensors. 2) synzymes and nanozymes, e. g., the use of TACN complexes as catalyst of biologically relevant reactions. In fact, the set of 3 donors of TACN reproduces the active site of several metallo-enzymes. 3) relationship between structure and functions, analyzing TACN derivatives in which the structure of ligand/complex is related to function.