BIOMIMETIC ENGINEERING OF NONADHESIVE GLYCOCALYX-LIKE SURFACES USING OLIGOSACCHARIDE SURFACTANT POLYMERS

The external region of a cell membrane, known as the glycocalyx, is do minated by glycosylated molecules(1-3), which direct specific interact ions such as cell-cell recognition and contribute to the steric repuls ion that prevents undesirable non-specific adhesion of other molecules and cells. Mimicking the non-adhesive properties of a glycocalyx prov ides a potential solution to the clinical problems, such as thrombosis (4), that are associated with implantable devices owing to non-specifi c adsorption of plasma proteins. Here we describe a biomimetic surface modification of graphite using oligosaccharide surfactant polymers, w hich, like a glycocalyx, provides a dense and confluent layer of oligo saccharides. The surfactant polymers consist of a flexible poly(vinyl amine) with dextran and alkanoyl side chains. We show that alkanoyl si de chains assemble on graphite through hydrophobic interaction and epi taxial adsorption. This constrains the polymer backbone to lie paralle l to the substrate, with solvated dextran side chains protruding into the aqueous phase, creating a glycocalyx-like coating. The resulting b iomimetic surface is effective in suppressing protein adsorption from human plasma protein solution.