What is phage display?

Phage display is a laboratory technique used to study protein-protein, protein-peptide, and protein-DNA interactions. In this technique, a gene encoding a protein of interest is inserted into a phage coat protein gene, causing the phage to 'display' the protein on its surface. These displayed proteins can then be used to screen for binding partners, such as antibodies, peptides, or DNA sequences. Phage display is commonly used for antibody discovery, directed evolution of proteins, and identifying peptide ligands for specific targets.