Synthesis of hexakis(2-keto-3,6-anhydro)cyclomaltohexaose: structural studies and Pb2+ complexation evaluation

Molecules which scavenge heavy metals are of significant interest for medical applications such as toxic metal decontamination or medical imaging. We report the first synthesis of hexakis(2-keto-3,6-anhydro)cyclomaltohexaose in good yield using mild conditions (Swern oxidation). This potential synthon exhibits reactivity towards water which results in its total conversion into the per(gem-diol) derivative. The first computational study of Pb2+ complexation with per-3,6-anhydro-α-cyclodextrin in water is also reported.