Received 27 June 2006; accepted 27 June 2006 | Edward T. Castellana, Paul S. Cremer*
The article "Solid supported lipid bilayers: From biophysical studies to sensor design" by Edward T. Castellana and Paul S. Cremer discusses the development and applications of solid supported lipid bilayers (SSLBs) in various scientific fields. SSLBs are self-assembled structures that mimic cell membranes, providing a platform for studying surface chemistry, cell signaling, ligand-receptor interactions, and enzymatic reactions. The authors review different types of membrane systems, including black lipid membranes, solid supported lipid bilayers, hybrid lipid bilayers, and polymer cushioned lipid bilayers. They highlight the advantages and limitations of each system, such as the stability, accessibility, and compatibility with different substrates. The article also explores the integration of SSLBs with microfluidic devices and array-based systems, enabling the development of lab-on-a-chip platforms for sensor applications. The authors discuss the challenges and techniques for creating spatially addressed arrays of SSLBs, including photolithographic patterning, microcontact printing, and microfluidic methods. The review emphasizes the potential of SSLBs in nanotechnology and future research directions.The article "Solid supported lipid bilayers: From biophysical studies to sensor design" by Edward T. Castellana and Paul S. Cremer discusses the development and applications of solid supported lipid bilayers (SSLBs) in various scientific fields. SSLBs are self-assembled structures that mimic cell membranes, providing a platform for studying surface chemistry, cell signaling, ligand-receptor interactions, and enzymatic reactions. The authors review different types of membrane systems, including black lipid membranes, solid supported lipid bilayers, hybrid lipid bilayers, and polymer cushioned lipid bilayers. They highlight the advantages and limitations of each system, such as the stability, accessibility, and compatibility with different substrates. The article also explores the integration of SSLBs with microfluidic devices and array-based systems, enabling the development of lab-on-a-chip platforms for sensor applications. The authors discuss the challenges and techniques for creating spatially addressed arrays of SSLBs, including photolithographic patterning, microcontact printing, and microfluidic methods. The review emphasizes the potential of SSLBs in nanotechnology and future research directions.