Phosphorylcholine-based polymers and their use in the prevention of biofouling

This article provides an overview of work carried out on the synthesis and non-fouling properties of phosphorylcholine (PC)-containing: polymers. The concept of biomimiery is outlined and the major classes of synthetic PC-based materials described. Studies on the interaction of these materials with various proteins are collated and the mechanism for their protein-resistant nature is discussed. Similarly, cellular interactions are also reviewed, with ex-vivo and in-vivo clinical data provided to demonstrate the usefulness of these materials for improving the properties of medical devices. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.