Naturally occurring macromolecules like proteins and DNA form helical structures. Synthetic helical polymers as mimics of biomacromolecules have been attracting ever-growing attention. On the basis of our recent achievements in optically active helical substituted polyacetylenes

this review article briefly introduces novel chiral materials derived from helical polyacetylenes and their applications. Special attention is devoted to chiral nanoparticles

chiral core/shell particles

chiral microspheres

and chiral (hydro)gels consisting of helical polyacetylenes. The applications of such helical polymeric materials in chiral recognition

chiral resolution

enantioselective crystallization

chiral catalysis

and enantioselective- controlled release are briefly summarized.