Ion channel mimics were assembled from a modular construction set consisting of core units, derived from polycarboxylate 18-crown-6 ethers, wall units, derived from macrocyclic tetraesters, and polar head groups which provide overall amphiphilic character. The preparation of symmetrical and side-discriminated macrocyclic tetraesters from diols and maleic anhydride gave the required macrocycles in low yields by acid-catalyzed ...
