Calix[4]arenes linked to multiple bidentate N-donors: potential ligands for synthetic modeling of multinuclear metalloenzymes.

A series of calix[4]arenes incorporating three or four bidentate diamines or pyridylamines attached at the "upper rim" were synthesized via practical protocols. Proof of structure was obtained in one instance by X-ray crystallography. These molecules are designed for general use as ligands for the preparation of multinuclear active site models of metalloenzymes. [reaction: see text]