Lighting the path: photopatternable substrates for biological applications

Photolithographic patterning methods provide a versatile way of functionalizing substrates for biological and biosensing applications. Here, we provide an overview of recent developments in photopatterning for biological applications. This review emphasizes photopatterned self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) since they have distinguished themselves as a facile means to functionalize a variety of substrates from oxides to noble metals, while also providing precise control over the surface chemistry. These patterning techniques have been divided into four categories depending on the type of surface modification; complete monomer removal, backbone cleavage, tail group degradation, and functional group modification. Additionally, insights are provided into the next generation of patterned substrates for biological applications.