The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

Thrombosis, biofilm formation, and poor biocompatibility remain key obstacles in the development of implantable biomedical devices. Surface modification using polymer brushes is a promising strategy to address these challenges. Zwitterionic polymer brushes offer antifouling properties by forming a hydration layer, but their long-term use is limited by insufficient antibacterial activity and potential leaching. To overcome this, we developed a dual-functional polymer brush with antifouling, antibacterial, and nonleaching properties. The brushes were grafted onto polyurethane via surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI-ATRP) using a surface-segregating initiator (SSI). Modified surfaces were analyzed by XPS, WCA, and AFM, and biological properties, including platelet adhesion, antibacterial effect, and cytotoxicity, were evaluated. This approach presents a promising surface engineering strategy to enhance the safety and durability of implantable biomedical devices.