Large monodomain bilayer arrays

Described is a summary of methods to produce large monodomain bilayer arrays which contain a host of bioelectronic molecules between two supports such as glass, metal, or metal oxide surfaces. The methods involve the use of soap-based or silane polymer surfactants to render the contacting surfaces hydrophobic. The bilayer composition can be pure lipid; mixtures of lipid and protein, antibiotics, etc.; or purified proteins with bound lipid. Stacking of successive bilayers (or multiples of bilayers) having different copositions can be achieved by successive stages of annealing or shearing before adjustment of hydration. With these techniques, monodomain areas of approximately 1 cm² and up to 500 μm thick can be achieved having a high density of bioelectronic molecules and varied composition.