Synthetic strategies for using the beta-linkage as a structural motif in electron transfer mimics have been tested. Exploratory syntheses of directly meso-beta-linked bis- and trisporphyrins and the first representative X-ray structure of a meso-beta-linked bisporphyrins are reported. The structure reveals a unique form of intramolecular- pi-pi stabilization between one porphyrin and a meso-aryl substituent in a second porphyrin unit that accounts for the stability of different atropisomers in trimers. Using beta-formyl porphyrins, dipyrromethanes, and suitable quinone precursor aldehydes, mixed condensations gave convenient access to porphyrin-porphyrin-quinone (P-P-Q) donor acceptor systems consisting of a meso-beta-linked bisporphyrin. a spacer, and a quinone acceptor. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved
