Hierarchical porphyrin self-assembly in aqueous solution.

In aqueous solution meso-tetrakis(4-phosphonatophenyl)porphyrin shows self-aggregation processes controlled by the "sergeant-soldier rule". After partial protonation of the external phosphonic groups, it is possible (i) to further protonate the inner nitrogen atoms of the molecules or (ii) to allow, over time, the system to aggregate. Therefore, the two procedure lead to a different system evolution, producing species with different chemico-physical properties.