Carbohydrate receptors combining both a macrocyclic building block and flexible side arms as recognition units: binding properties of compounds with CH2OH groups as side arms.

New representatives of compounds combining both a macrocyclic building block and two flexible side arms as recognition units were prepared and their binding properties toward selected carbohydrates were evaluated. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of the replacement of the heterocycle-bearing side arms by smaller units, such as hydroxy groups, on the binding capability. The design of this type of receptor was inspired by the participation of the side chain hydroxy group of serine and threonine in the biorecognition of carbohydrates. Such structural modifications enable the recognition of structure-activity relationships, which are of high importance in the development of carbohydrate receptors with predictable binding strength and selectivity.