Stability enhancement by hydrophobic anchoring and a cross-linked structure of a phospholipid copolymer film for medical devices

Uchida, Kazuto*; Masuda, Tsukuru*; Hara, Shintaro*; Matsuo, Yoichi*; Liu, Y.*; Aoki, Hiroyuki  ; Asano, Yoshihiko*; Miyata, Kazuki*; Fukuma, Takeshi*; Ono, Toshiya*; Isoyama, Takashi*; Takai, Madoka*

Zwitterionic MPC polymer coatings effectively deter blood coagulation and protein buildup on medical devices. Researchers synthesized MPC copolymers containing a cross-linking unit (MPTMSi) plus one of four hydrophobic anchoring groups (MPTSSi, BMA, EHMA, LMA) and applied them to PDMS, PP, and PMP. These treatments yielded uniformly hydrophilic, electrically neutral surfaces. Protein adsorption tests showed that PMBSi (BMA) best resisted fluorescently labeled BSA, while PMLSi (LMA) was comparatively weaker, although all four coatings minimized platelet adhesion. Further analyses linked these differences in protein adsorption to varying swelling behaviors in water. Indeed, PMLSi absorbed more water, allowing some protein infiltration yet still repelling platelets. When tested under circulating flow to mimic shear stress, PMMMSi (MPTSSi) and PMLSi coatings on PP and PMP demonstrated excellent durability and platelet repellency. Overall, this study highlights how hydrophobic moieties can boost both hemocompatibility and stability of MPC-based coatings, promising improved performance in medical devices requiring low protein fouling, reduced platelet adhesion, and long-term reliability.