Surface charge characterization and protein adsorption at biomaterials surfaces

Abstract

In an effort to more fully understand the nature of protein adsorption, and the role adsorbed proteins have in mediating interfacial processes in biomaterial application, effect of surface charge is being explored. For this purpose, a novel electrokinetic technique whereby electroosmosis is measured at flat plates is being used to characterize surfaces with respect to effective surface charge and origin of charge. Protein adsorption is monitored by in situ ellipsometry or by an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Correlations can then be made between the observed surface properties and biological response to the surface, including bacterial adherence and complement activation of blood proteins. Surfaces studied include a wide variety of radio frequency plasma polymers, and polysiloxane modified surfaces; all of interest as biomaterials. The plasma polymer surfaces are being used as model surfaces to study protein mediated bacterial adherence. Siloxane polymer coatings are being used to interfere with salivary pellicle and plaque formation on teeth, with different patterns in the adherence of oral bacteria observed with different polysiloxanes. In the above systems, patterns in protein adsorption related to surface charge and functionality, as well as other surface properties, can be identified. It appears that surface charge and charging properties are important factors in formation of biofilms.