The matere bond.

This perpective delves into the emerging field of matere bonds, a novel type of noncovalent interaction involving group 7 elements such as manganese, technetium, and rhenium. Matere bonds, a new member of the σ-hole family where metal atoms act as electron acceptors, have been shown experimentally and theoretically to play significant roles in the self-assembly and stabilization of supramolecular structures both in solid-state and solution-phase environments. This perspective article explores the physical nature of these interactions, emphasizing their directionality and structural influence in various supramolecular architectures. Recent studies have expanded the understanding of matere bonds beyond classical metal-ligand coordination, highlighting their potential in crystal engineering and catalysis. This perspective article also examines the occurrence of matere bonds in biological systems, particularly within manganese-containing proteins, where they contribute to the structural integrity and catalytic activity. Theoretical and computational analyses, including molecular electrostatic potential surfaces and density functional theory, further elucidate the properties and applications of matere bonds, offering new insights for the design of advanced materials and biomimetic systems. This comprehensive overview underscores the versatility of matere bonds, paving the way for future innovations in supramolecular chemistry involving metals.