Combinatorial entropy behaviour leads to range selective binding in ligand-receptor interactions

摘要: From viruses to nanoparticles, constructs functionalized with multiple ligands display peculiar binding properties that only arise from multivalent effects. Using statistical mechanical modelling, we describe here how multivalency can be exploited achieve what dub range selectivity, is, targets bearing a number of receptors within specified range. We use our model characterise the region in parameter space where one expect selective targeting occur, and provide experimental support for this phenomenon. Overall, selectivity represents potential path increase constructs.