The n → Π* Interaction: A Recently Discovered Non-covalent Interaction

Stavroula Koulocheri, A.

Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, NKUA, Greece

Dr. Stavroula Koulocheri, A., Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, NKUA, Greece.

Keywords: Bürgi-Dunitz Trajectory; Pyramidalization; Electron Delocalization; n??* Interaction

Abstract

This short article describes the recently emerging very weak non-covalent interaction called n → Π* interaction and its nature. The brief overview shows the widespread presence of this non covalent interaction in biomacromolecules especially in proteins. Besides the other known non-covalent interactions, n → Π* interaction plays a significant role to the thermodynamic stability and functional structure of biological molecules. This knowledge can shed light into the biological processes of living systems with future investigations in other important areas like medicinal chemistry.

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