Abstract: A targeted drug delivery nanocarrier and a method of forming the same is disclosed herein. The targeted drug delivery nanocarrier includes a plurality of amphipathic molecules forming a carrier particle having a plurality of drug molecules contained therein. A targeted landscape phage protein assembly is complexed to the carrier particle preferably using the unique method disclosed herein. The targeted landscape phage protein assembly displays a binding peptide that is selected to specifically and selectively bind to a target site. The method for forming targeted drug delivery nanocarriers includes the steps of obtaining a plurality of bacteriophage displaying a binding peptide for a desired target site, treating the bacteriophage with a denaturing agent, mixing the treated bacteriophage with a plurality of carrier particles and purifying the mixture to obtain a plurality of targeted drug delivery nanocarriers.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for identifying and characterizing the affinity of one or more ligands of a peptide are provided. In particular, a “stripped phage ligand sensor device” (SPLSD) is provided comprising a sensor coupled to a binding element of interest. Binding elements of the invention comprise phage which in most embodiments express a peptide of interest on the phage surface. Assays using the SPLSD allow detection and quantitation of ligands. Also provided are improved methods for forming monolayers using phage. In particular, methods for the formation of monolayers using “stripped phage” are provided. Further provided are monolayers and Langmuir-Blodgett films formed by the methods of the invention as well as substrates having deposited thereon the films of the invention. The monolayers, films and substrates of the invention are useful as components of biosensors and/or chemosensors.

Abstract: Several peptides for selectively and specifically binding Bacillus anthracis spores are disclosed herein. It is contemplated that the isolated peptides will be incorporated into diagnostic probes. The diagnostic probes may include landscape page probes and antibody probes, as well as any other probes known in the art. Inventors contemplate that the probes could be further used in real-time continuous monitoring of the environment so that detection systems for monitoring the low concentrations of Bacillus anthracis spores may be developed.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for binding to Salmonella bacteria are provided. The compositions comprise peptide sequences which bind to Salmonella bacteria with high specificity. The compositions are useful in identification, detection, and isolation of Salmonella bacteria. The compositions are also useful for the delivery of a wide variety of compounds to Salmonella bacteria or their vicinity. Such compounds include nucleotides, proteins (including, for example, toxins), liposomes, and small molecule pharmaceuticals. The compositions are also useful in identifying bacterial cell surface markers to which the compositions bind.

Abstract: A magnetostrictive ligand sensor device (MLSD), system and method are provided having at least one magnetostrictive particle (MSP) to which is bound at least one binding element. The MSP may be dispersed in a sample containing a target ligand such that the target ligand binds thereto. A driver is also provided to emit a varying magnetic field such that the MSP produces a resonance response detectable by a measurement device configured to receive and detect changes in the resonance response that are due to alterations of the binding element. The MLSD and assays find use in identifying and quantitating ligands as well as chemicals and environmental conditions in a sample or patient.