Platelet compatible blood filtration fabrics using a phosphorylcholine polymer having high surface mobility

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Surface Science

Background:

• Blood filtration devices require surfaces that minimize platelet adhesion and activation.
• Existing materials often lead to adverse platelet responses, compromising device efficacy.
• Phosphorylcholine polymers are known for their biocompatibility, but mobility can be a limiting factor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize a novel phosphorylcholine polymer with enhanced side-chain mobility for blood-contacting applications.
• To evaluate the anti-thrombotic properties of the new polymer, specifically its ability to reduce platelet adhesion and activation.
• To investigate the relationship between polymer side-chain mobility and blood compatibility.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a phosphorylcholine polymer (PMEO2B) featuring a diethylene oxide chain for increased side-chain mobility.
• Surface characterization using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to determine phosphorylcholine group density and orientation.
• Assessment of platelet adhesion and activation on coated poly(ethylene terephthalate) fabrics under dry conditions.

Main Results:

• PMEO2B exhibited a high surface density of phosphorylcholine groups, even in air.
• The hydration equilibration time for PMEO2B was shorter compared to a control polymer (PMB).
• PMEO2B-coated fabrics significantly reduced platelet adhesion and activation compared to uncoated or PMB-coated fabrics, even without prehydration.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced polymer side-chain mobility, facilitated by the diethylene oxide unit, is crucial for reducing platelet interactions.
• PMEO2B demonstrates superior performance in preventing platelet adhesion and activation, making it a promising candidate for blood filtration devices.
• The design strategy of incorporating flexible bridging units in phosphorylcholine polymers is effective for improving blood compatibility.