In this paper we have demonstrated that polymerized liposomes are biomolecular materials that provide a molecular recognition function (sialic acid) and a detection element (polydiacetylene backbone), all within a single supramolecular assembly. The binding event is transduced to a visible color change, readily seen with the naked eye and quantified by absorption spectroscopy. Specificity of the color change was demonstrated by competitive inhibition studies. In addition, nonspecific adsorption, if it occurs. does not appear to affect the color of the liposome solutions. 28 refs., 2 figs.