By changing the size of the attached polymer, it is possible to affect the bonding of molecules of different size. This, says Stayton, means that it is possible to be very specific about size, which will add greater responsiveness to things like diagnostics. Scientists will, for example, be able to be much more specific about what can be removed from a solution, like a blood sample. The proteins can be engineered to pull a specific molecule from the blood and hang onto it until the blood has been washed away. Computing is another area where these switches can be used.
Computers operate on a binary system of on and off states.
The diminutive size of proteins and the molecules involved will open up avenues into advanced concepts like 'lab on a chip' technology. Scientists use changes in temperature, acidity and light to trigger the smart polymers.