Nanoscale organization of proteins via block copolymer lithography and non-covalent bioconjugation

Thin films of cylinder-forming biotinylated poly(ethylene glycol)-polystyrene (PEG-b-PS) block copolymers were studied as a means to produce protein patterns. The orientation of the PEG cylinders depended on the end group functionality as well as on the preparation conditions. In the case of perpendicular cylinders, immobilization of single streptavidin molecules could be achieved. This immobilization was controlled by varying the amount of biotin in the films by mixing with non-functional PEG-b-PS. © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2013.