Phosphorus dendrimers functionalised with nitrogen ligands, for catalysis and biology

Phosphorus dendrimers (dendrimers having one phosphorus atom at each branching point) possess versatile properties, depending on the type of their terminal functions. This perspective article focusses on the synthesis and study of properties of phosphorus dendrimers functionalised on their surface by nitrogen ligands and their complexes. It is organized depending on the type of N-ligands (P,N ligands, N,N ligands, and N,N,N-ligands). Most properties concern catalysis, with palladium, copper, and scandium complexes. Recent advances concern anti-cancer properties, with dendrimers functionalised by copper and gold complexes of N,N-ligands.