Vernier templating and synthesis of a 12-porphyrin nano-ring

Vernier templates cut complex molecular synthesis down to size Chemists use template-directed synthesis to position molecular components so that they can be covalently linked into complex molecules that are not readily accessible by classical synthetic methods. But as larger structures are targeted, the synthesis of the templates themselves becomes challenging. O'Sullivan et al. now show that 'molecular Verniers', based on the principle of moiré pattern formation, can solve this problem. Using a Vernier template with six binding sites and molecular building blocks with four porphyrins acting as binding sites, the authors create a 12-porphyrin nano-ring with a diameter of 4.7 nanometres. The ease and efficiency of this synthesis establishes Vernier templating as a powerful new strategy for producing large monodisperse macromolecules.