Nanoscale self-assembly mediated by genetically engineered gold binding polypeptide

We present a self-assembly method for guiding and positioning nano- and microscale objects onto a template mediated by a genetically engineered polypeptide. We have identified a polypeptide that can specifically recognize and bind to gold via cell surface display and biopanning. We demonstrate that this polypeptide can differentiate between various inorganic materials such as platinum, gold, and silicon dioxide. We have utilized this polypeptide to guide the assembly of nanoscale quantum dots or microscale gold spheres onto patterned microfabricated substrates. Our approach of using the material recognition polypeptides opens a new venue for bridging the organic and inorganic domains and guiding self-assembly of structures and devices from the bottom up.