II. Function-Oriented Molecular Discovery Platforms

Functional molecular screening provides a powerful strategy to identify key regulators of cell behavior and disease-related processes. By linking molecular function to phenotypic outcomes, these approaches enable the discovery of critical targets for diagnostics, therapeutics, and regenerative interventions. When embedded within engineered platforms that mimic physiological environments, functional screening becomes a versatile tool for uncovering biologically relevant and translationally actionable molecules.

SELEX: One key approach involves the use of nucleic acid libraries to isolate functional binders through iterative selection and amplification. This technique enables the identification of aptamers with high affinity and specificity toward target cells, proteins, or nanoscale particles, particularly when selection is performed under physiologically relevant conditions using engineered biomaterials.

CRISPR screen: Complementing this, genome-wide CRISPR-based screening allows systematic interrogation of gene function by activating or silencing specific loci. When applied in disease-mimicking or mechanically dynamic environments, this approach facilitates the discovery of mechanosensitive or context-dependent genetic regulators involved in cell fate, fibrosis, or regeneration.