Pattern-based discrimination of enantiomeric and structurally similar amino acids: an optical mimic of the mammalian taste response.

This manuscript describes an optical enantioselective pattern-based sensing array. A differential array of enantioselective indicator displacement assays was constructed and used to demonstrate simultaneous discrimination of enantiomeric and structurally similar alpha-amino acids. Interpretation of the output patterns by principle component analysis leads to the separation of enantio- and chemoselective information along orthogonal variance axes when chiral receptors of opposite enantiomeric preference are included. A general principle is delineated that correlates array design with the achievement of enantiomeric discrimination analogous to the mammalian gustation response to the amino acids.