Proteins, functional properties wettability

Chemical derivatization of proteins to modify functional properties has received limited consideration. Cationic derivatives of food proteins are routinely used (e.g. sodium soy isolates and sodium and calcium caseinates) to improve wettability, dispersibility and handling properties of these proteins (27). 

Variation of the head group of the monolayer makes it possible to control wettability etc., and also allows the introduction of different chemical moieties with specific properties such as nonspecific binding of proteins to surfaces. For example the introduction of oligoethylene glycol functionality to the end of the alkyl chain results in protein-resistant properties (37). Thus instead of synthesizing different thiols/silanes with different head groups, it is more convenient to use a number of standard SAMs and subsequently perform reactions on SAMs to modify the surface chemistry. Performing reactions on... 

Protein-water interaction plays an important role in the determination and maintenance of the three-dimensional structure of proteins. Water modified the physicochemical properties of proteins. Therefore, protein-water interactions have been the subject of intensive study and have provided significant advances in our understanding of the involvement of water in protein functionality, stability, and dynamics [6]. The thermodynamics of protein-water interaction directly affects dispersibility, wettability, swelling, and solubility of proteins. Surface-active properties of proteins are simply the result of the thermodynamically unfavorable interaction of exposed nonpolar patches of proteins with solvent water. 

The structure and formation of self-assembled mono-layers (SAMs) of alkanethiols and dialkyldisulphides on gold surfaces has been intensively studied since 1983 [2-5] (for recent reviews see [6,7]). A broad range of applications of such systems has arisen from the synthesis of alkanethiols having functional groups in the o -position. These make it possible to impart virtually any chemical property to a gold surface, and thus, parameters such as wettability [8,9], and reactivity [10-14] can be controlled on such a surface. Monolayers on gold have been used to selectively and/or covalently bind cells [15-18], proteins [11,13,19-21], membranes [22], and other subcellular structures [23] (for a review see [24]). 

Additionally, a polymer s effectiveness as a scaffolding material is dependent on its interaction with transplanted or host cells. Thus the polymer s surface properties should facilitate their attachment, proliferation, and (possible) differentiation. A strong cell adhesion favors the proliferation of cells, while a rounded morphology promotes their differentiation [46], The hydrophilic nature of some polymers promotes a highly wettable surface and allows cells to be encapsulated by capillary action [101]. Furthermore, cellular attachment and function on polymeric scaffolds may be enhanced by providing a biomimetic surface through the incorporation of proteins and ligands. 

---