Recognition of patterned molecular ink with phage displayed peptides.

The development of a reliable method for patterning and recognizing molecular inks could enable exciting avenues in fundamental research and novel applications. Phage display is a powerful method for identifying peptides that possess enhanced selectivity and binding affinity toward a variety of targets. Here, we demonstrate for the first time the immobilization and recognition of a small molecular ink with screened phage displayed peptides. Our approach is based on a unique mix of comprehensive phage displayed peptide screening processes, along with novel micropatterning techniques. These results, combined with the large variety of available inks and surface chemistries, could open up opportunities in cell biology, nanomaterials self-assembly, selective sensors, and even energy storage applications.