Self-Assembly of Peptides on Two-Dimensional Materials and Their Sensor Applications

Self-assembled peptides provide a versatile strategy for functionalizing two-dimensional (2D) materials such as graphene and MoS2. By rational sequence design, peptides spontaneously form ordered monolayers that enable the controlled immobilization of molecular receptors for biosensing. These receptors are positioned within nanometer-scale distances of conductive surfaces, thereby achieving high sensitivity and selectivity. Recent studies demonstrate odor detection with enantioselective recognition of limonene and protein sensing at femtomolar levels. Beyond sensing, hierarchical assemblies of peptides with cofactors such as hemin yield artificial enzyme interfaces capable of catalytic performance comparable to natural enzymes. This programmable approach integrates molecular recognition with electronic readout, providing a robust and scalable platform for next-generation biosensors, chemical sensors, and bioelectronic devices. Overall, peptide self-assembly offers a universal interfacial design principle bridging biomolecules and 2D nanomaterials, opening new opportunities for advanced sensing and catalytic applications.