Metallofoldamers are oligomers that fold into three-dimensional structures in a controlled manner upon coordination with metal ions. Molecules in this class have shown an impressive ability to form single-handed helical structures and other three-dimensional architectures. Several metallofoldamers have been applied as sensors due to their selective folding when binding to a specific metal ion, while others show promise for applications as responsive materials on the basis of their ability to fold and unfold upon changes in the oxidation state of the coordinated metal ion, and as novel catalysts.

Metallofoldamers: From Helicates to Biomimetic Architectures describes the variety of interactions between oligomers and metal species, with a focus on non-natural synthetic molecules.

Topics covered include:

• the major classes of foldamers and their folding driving force
• metalloproteins and metalloenzymes
• helicates: self-assembly, structure and applications
• abiotic metallo-DNA
• metallo-PNA and iDNA
• metallopeptides
• interactions of biomimetic oligomers with metal ions
• applications of metallofoldamers