Mobile precursor mediated protein adsorption on solid surfaces

• Published in: Progress in surface science 2012-01, Vol.87 (1-4), p.1-22
• Main Authors: Garland, Adam, Shen, Lei, Zhu, Xiaoyang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Condensed matter: electronic structure, electrical, magnetic, and optical properties; Condensed matter: structure, mechanical and thermal properties; Exact sciences and technology; Physics; Solid surfaces and solid-solid interfaces; Surfaces and interfaces; thin films and whiskers (structure and nonelectronic properties)
• ISSN: 0079-6816; 1878-4240
• DOI: 10.1016/j.progsurf.2012.02.001

► The formation of a mobile precursor state determines the overall adsorption kinetics of protein. ► The nature of this state determines the protein’s ability to become strongly adsorbed to the surface. ► The properties of the surface and protein determine the characteristics of the precursor state. ► Better understanding of the precursor state allows for control over protein adsorption kinetics. The interaction between a protein molecule and a surface is ubiquitous to a number of important technologies, such as bio-sensing, biomaterials, and nanomedicine. This process is also essential to complex biological functions, such as protein–cell surface interactions. Here we explore the application of fundamental concepts developed in the field of surface science to the understanding of protein–surface interactions. In particular, we focus on the role of mobile precursor states in the reversible and irreversible adsorption of protein molecules. We attempt to apply these simple concepts to the analysis of the kinetics and thermodynamics of protein–surface interactions. We conclude by discussing how one may take advantage of these simple concepts in designing and controlling protein–surface interactions for various bio-interface based technologies.