Patterned and switchable surfaces for biomaterial applications

Andrew Hook – Patterned and switchable surfaces for biomaterial applicationsfrom their synthetically produced polymeric counterparts of similar molecular weightdue to the narrow dispersity in structure and size for the former. This results inunique and predictable adsorption behaviour, providing a unique opportunity forhighly resolved control over these biomolecules at an interface. Indeed, in biologicalsystems highly resolved spatial and temporal control of biomolecules is a criticalrequirement for the phenomenon of life. The thermodynamic and kinetic drivingforces to permit this control are programmed into the sequence and 3D structure ofbiomolecules. An ability to better understand these driving forces would permit anincreased capability to mimic in vivo biomolecular manipulation.This chapter summarises the current knowledge on the underlying principlesgoverning both DNA and protein adsorption to surfaces and how protein adsorptioncan be applied to manipulating cells at surfaces. Furthermore, the manner by whichthese principles have been applied in recent years to pattern biomolecules on surfacesand also to control their adsorption and desorption in time is discussed. The chapteralso includes an outline of the various techniques used to form patterned andswitchable surfaces. The particular focus here has been on cases where trulyadvanced biomolecule manipulation is achieved in both space and time.1.1. Surface manipulation of biomolecules and cellsThe ability to manipulate biomolecules at the solid/liquid interface requires asound knowledge of how biomolecules behave in such an environment. Themanipulation of biomolecules is significantly different from the manipulation ofsmaller molecules or synthetic polymers. Weak forces such as hydrophobicinteractions are able to play a significant role given the ability of these biomoleculesto form multivalent interactions. The size of these molecules also plays a1-3