Salt-responsive zwitterionic polymer brushes with anti-polyelectrolyte property

Polymer brushes have been demonstrated as versatile and effective surface modification method to achieve unparalleled control over surface properties and functionality. Here, this review mainly highlights the intriguing performance and functionalities of zwitterionic polymer brushes with anti-polyelectrolyte property for a variety of applications in protein resistance, antibacterial activity, surface wetting, and surface frication. Different from other hydrophilic polymer brushes, zwitterionic brushes exhibit the unique zwitterionic-induced anti-polyelectrolyte effect, allowing for the development of new smart polymers and polymer-coated surfaces.