Anti-fouling coatings based on cation-π interactions: a rapid solution for medical implants
Researchers have developed a new method to create effective anti-fouling coatings for medical implants. Using cation–π interactions, the coatings are quickly formed on various substrates, offering an improved solution for reducing protein, bacteria, and cell adhesion.
In the medical industry, reducing biofouling—the adhesion of proteins, bacteria, and cells to surfaces—is critical for enhancing the durability and functionality of implants. Traditional antifouling coatings, which are covalently bonded to substrates, are often time-consuming and dependent on the substrate material. A recent study addresses these challenges by introducing a method that rapidly forms antifouling coatings using cation–π interactions.
The researchers synthesized both block and random copolymers through reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. These copolymers, made from poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (PEGMA) and methacryloxyethyltrimethyl ammonium chloride (METAC), were adsorbed onto substrates modified with a metal-phenolic network (MPN). This process enabled the rapid formation of antifouling coatings in approximately six minutes, making it an efficient solution for various substrates, including those used in medical implants.
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Block copolymers outperform random copolymers in anti-fouling performance
The study revealed that block copolymers provided superior anti-fouling properties compared to random copolymers. By increasing the ratio of PEGMA and METAC in the copolymer composition, the antifouling performance could be further enhanced. The research highlights the potential of this method for creating anti-fouling coatings with improved resistance to protein, cell, and bacterial adhesion, while offering the advantage of rapid and versatile application on a wide range of materials.
Source: Polymer Chemistry, Issue 43, 2024
