ABSTRACT
Another significance of self-assemblies is their ability to direct reaction pathways. The fact of self-assembling properties can be understood as codes of recognizing self. Conversely, the fact that other molecules do not participate in the assemblies manifests specificity in molecular recognition. Such recognition can be further exploited as molecular codes to control chemical reaction down the desired pathway. Traditionally, chemical reactions are attributed to functional groups; functional groups that are supposed to react but did not react have no explanation. The molecular code concept adds a new chapter in chemistry to advance our understanding regarding chemical reactions. Under its guidance, functional groups that are supposed to react and do not violate chemical codes are expected to proceed along the favored reaction pathway. Even chiral molecular codes can be designed and implemented to impart structure-selective reactions.
