Azobenzene derivatives due to their photo- and electroactive properties are an important group of compounds finding applications in diverse fields. Due to the possibility of controlling the trans–cis isomerization, azo-bearing structures are ideal building blocks for development of e.g. nanomaterials, smart polymers, molecular containers, photoswitches, and sensors. Important role play also macrocyclic compounds well known for their interesting binding properties. In this article selected macrocyclic compounds bearing azo group(s) are comprehensively described. Here, the relationship between compounds’ structure and their properties (as e.g. ability to guest complexation, supramolecular structure formation, switching and motion) is reviewed.

The first example of substitution reaction in the free α-position of N-confused calix[4]pyrroles is reported: azo-coupling with various arenediazonium salts. The obtained azocompounds were used for studies of their anion-binding properties by UV-Vis spectroscopy.

Microwave-Assisted Organic Synthesis (MAOS) is one of the most current trends in organic chemistry. Herein, both the most popular and new approaches in microwave-syntheses of very important linkage in Nature - amide bond - are overviewed and compared with conventional synthetic routes.