Theoretical investigation on the molecular inclusion process of prilocaine into p-sulfonic acid calix[6]arene

The present letter reports, for the first time, results from a theoretical analysis of the inclusion process involving the prilocaine into the p-sulfonic acid calix[6]arene. Structure and stabilization energies were calculated, in both gas and aqueous phases, using a sequential methodology based on semiempirical and Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. From the results, a qualitative structure property relationship could be established with some main structural features being relevant for inclusion complex stabilization: (i) the hydrogen bonds established between guest and host molecules, (ii) the dispersion effect and (iii) the inclusion mode of guest molecule into the host cavity