Supramolecular chirality in coordination chemistry

Supramolecular chirality is generated from assemblies based on supramolecular interactions such as hydrogen bonding, van der Waals and metal-ligand coordinative interactions. In this chapter, we discuss chiral supramolecular architectures that are based on metal-ligand coordination. Emphasis is given to ensembles that are formed exclusively from achiral building units and thus rely on metal coordination geometries or asymmetric ligand arrangements in order to generate chirality via supramolecular (coordinative) interactions. Particular interest is given to assemblies that exhibit chiral cavities with potential for guest encapsulation for recognition, storage, and utilization as nano-reaction vessels. Examples of chiral architectures are presented that resemble molecular symmetries of helicates, trigonal (anti)prisms, tetrahedra, trigonal bipyramids, octahedra and cuboctahedra.