# The V‐Shaped Hamilton Receptors: A Paradigmatic Multipurpose Scaffold

## TL;DR

This review explores the development and applications of Hamilton-type receptors in molecular recognition and supramolecular chemistry.

## Contribution

This is the first comprehensive review detailing the synthesis, recognition, and applications of Hamilton-type receptors.

## Key findings

- Hamilton receptors have been applied to sense barbiturates, anions, amino acids, and drug molecules.
- They are used in rotaxanes and supramolecular catalysis, showing broad functional potential.
- The review outlines future directions for functionalized Hamilton-type receptors.

## Abstract

Sensors are devices that can detect and enumerate the physical and/or chemical aspects in real time. The generation of novel sensory materials for sensing/recognition of chemical entities are significant for protecting both the environment and humanity. This review article reveals the achievements made in the designed synthesis and molecular recognition of Hamilton‐type receptors since first report by Hamilton in 1988 to till date. This is the first elaborative manuscript in which Hamilton receptor is being exposed in detail. This manuscript is divided into three parts, in which the first portion highlights the importance and urgency of molecular recognition along with the historic background of Hamilton receptor. Whereas, the middle section discloses potential applications of Hamilton receptor in sensing and recognition of barbiturate molecules, anions, neutral molecules, drug molecules, amino acids, and racemic guest molecules. Additionally, this portion also covers the exciting applications of these receptors in the domain of rotaxanes and supramolecular catalysis. The final section highlights the future aspects of Hamilton receptor. The authors believe that this review will be useful to the inspiring researchers around the world thereby, boosting the field of receptors in the territory of supramolecular chemistry and other domains of scientific fields.

This manuscript explores the historical context and significance of molecular recognition in relation to Hamilton‐type receptors. It concludes with a discussion on future prospects for the development of novel functionalized Hamilton‐type receptors. It is hoped that this collection will offer new insights and directions for the supramolecular chemistry community.© 2026 WILEY‐VCH GmbH