Abstract: The present disclosure provides new and improved phage display methodologies. Among other things, the present invention provides methodologies that do not utilize bacterial amplification of phage. Alternatively or additionally, the present invention provides phage display systems that rapidly identify ligands. Alternatively or additionally, the present invention provides phage display methodologies for use in human subjects. Alternatively or additionally, the present invention provides phage display systems that allow detection and/or characterization of low abundance ligands.

Abstract: Provided are peptides which can mimic the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), e.g., by selectively binding TGF-? and/or EGF. In certain embodiments, the peptides are retro-inverted peptides. The peptides may be used as soluble decoys for TGF-? and/or EGF, and anti-cancer properties of peptides are demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. The peptides may be administered alone or comprised in a fusion construct, imaging construct, and/or a therapeutic construct, e.g., for the treatment of a cancer.

Abstract: The present invention concerns novel methods of identifying peptide sequences that selectively bind to targets. In alternative embodiments, targets may comprise cells or clumps of cells, particles attached to chemicals compounds, molecules or aggregates, or parasites. In preferred embodiments, target cells are sorted before exposure to the phage library. The general method, Biopanning and Rapid Analysis of Selective Interactive Ligands (BRASIL) provides for rapid and efficient separation of phage that bind to targets, while preserving unbound phage. BRASIL may be used in preselection procedure to subtract phage that bind non-specifically to a first target before exposing the subtracted library to a second target. Certain embodiments concern targeting peptides identified by BRASIL and methods of use of such peptides for targeted delivery of therapeutic agents or imaging agents or diagnosis or treatment of diseases.