Silica-binding peptides: physical chemistry and emerging biomaterials applications

Silica-binding peptides (SBPs) are increasingly recognized as versatile tools for various applications spanning biosensing, biocatalysis, and environmental remediation. This review explores the interaction between these peptides and silica surfaces, offering insights into how variables such as surface silanol density, peptide sequence and composition, and solution conditions influence binding affinity. Key advancements in SBP applications are discussed, including their roles in protein purification, biocatalysis, biosensing, and biomedical engineering. By examining the underlying binding mechanisms and exploring their practical potential, this work provides a comprehensive understanding of how SBPs can drive innovations in materials science and biotechnology.