Metallodendrimers as transphosphorylation catalysts

The publication reports on the transphosphorylation activity of dendrimers functionalized with triazacyclononane-Zn(II) complexes. The kinetic analysis of the systems showed conclusively that the catalytic process is characterized by the involvement of two Zn(II) complexes that act cooperatively in the transphosphorylation reaction. Although the so called 'dendritic effect' is well known, this is the first case in which it has been quantitatively determined. Furthermore, the most functionalized dendrimers are among the best Zn(II) based catalysts reported so far for this reaction.