Sulfonated Poly(ethylene glycol) Containing Methacrylate Copolymer Surfaces; Preparation, Characterization and In Vitro Biocompatibility

Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG1K) and sulfonated PEG (PEG1K-SO$_3$) methacrylate (MA) copolymers have been prepared and characterized. The structures of the synthesized copolymers were confirmed by $^1$H and $^{13}$ C NMR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The bulk characteristics of the copolymers were evaluated by viscosity and thermal analysis. The surface properties of the copolymers were investigated using dynamic contact angle measurements and electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis. The hydrophilicity of the surfaces modified with PEG1KMA or PEG1K-SO$_3$MA increased, possibly as a result of the orientation of the hydrophilic PEG1KMA/PEG1K-SO$_3$MA chains into the water phase. Platelets adhered less to the surfaces of the copolymers than they did to a polyurethane control. In addition, adhesion of platelets to the copolymer surfaces decreased upon increasing the chain density of PEG1KMA and sulfonated PEG1KMA in the copolymers. Both bacterial adhesion and protein adsorption were significantly reduced on the copolymer surfaces and their levels differ depending on the kind of surface or media.