Biomembranes as models for polymer surfaces. III. Characterization of a phosphorylcholine surface covalently bound to...

A surface layer of phosphorylcholine has been chemically linked with the surface hydroxyl groups present on glass and silica by reaction with mono- and bifunctional reagents. Evidence for the structural integrity of the deposited group was provided by the equimolar association of phosphorus and choline with the reacted surfaces. Modified glass surfaces yielded contact angles which are consistent with those found previously for other models of biological membranes. Covalent modification of the treated surfaces was demonstrated by i.r. spectroscopy via the removal of surface hydroxyl groups. The modified surfaces were thermostable at temperatures up to 375 degrees C for extended periods. The relevance of these results to the generation of new biomaterials is discussed.