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Nano-scale surface modification of a segmented polyurethane with a phospholipid polymer
Nobuyuki Morimoto1, Akihiko Watanabe, Yasuhiko Iwasaki
1Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan.
Biomaterials
|May 8, 2004
Summary
Nano-scale surface modification of segmented polyurethane (SPU) with 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) creates a biocompatible elastomer. This technique reduces platelet adhesion, enhancing its potential for elastic polymer biomaterials.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Surface Engineering
Background:
- Segmented polyurethane (SPU) is a widely used elastomer in biomedical applications.
- Enhancing the biocompatibility of SPU is crucial for improving its performance and safety in vivo.
- Current surface modification techniques may alter mechanical properties or lack precise control over surface characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a nano-scale surface modification technique for SPU using cross-linked 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) polymer.
- To control the domain size and depth of the modified layer for optimized biocompatibility.
- To evaluate the impact of this modification on the surface properties, mechanical characteristics, and hemocompatibility of SPU.
Main Methods:
- SPU films were immersed in monomer solutions containing MPC, EHMA, and glycerol 1,3-diglycerolate diacrylate.
- Visible light irradiation initiated polymerization, condensing MPC units at the SPU surface.
- Surface analysis included X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and water contact angle measurements.
- Mechanical properties were assessed using tensile strength tests under wet conditions.
- Platelet adhesion and activation were evaluated on modified and unmodified SPU films.
Main Results:
- Nano-scale, 6- to 25-nm MPC unit-enriched domains were observed on the modified SPU surface, decreasing in density with depth.
- The highest surface density of MPC units was achieved with an MPC to EHMA ratio of 7:3.
- Modified SPU films exhibited mechanical properties comparable to unmodified SPU.
- Platelet adhesion and activation were significantly reduced on the modified SPU films compared to the original SPU.
Conclusions:
- Nano-scale surface modification of SPU with MPC is an effective method for creating biocompatible elastomers.
- The technique allows for control over surface domain characteristics and preserves mechanical integrity.
- This approach shows significant potential for improving the hemocompatibility of elastic polymer biomaterials, reducing risks associated with blood-contacting applications.