Antifouling Surfaces for Reduction of unspecific Binding

Biofouling – also referred to as bio-corrosion or protein fouling – is known as the unwelcome adsorption and adhesion of biomolecules on the surface of implants, membranes and plastic vessels (cups or microplates) in aqueous or biological milieu. Once biomolecules have formed a layer on the surface, it is much easier for cells and microorganisms to subsequently attach to the surface and create so-called biofilms.

Particularly in the field of life science research, diagnostics, analytics or sensor technology as well as in medical technology, biofouling can cause a significant loss of performance. Cells or biomolecules interact non-specifically with the vessel surface which can lead to a higher measurement inaccuracy or a high background signal especially when working with small sample volumes.

By addressing the issue of biofouling, PolyAn contributes to an improvement of the signal-to-noise ratio of sensor systems. Especially in applications where there is only a weak interaction between biosensor and probe, it is necessary to minimize non-specific binding to achieve a discernible signal. Prospectively, this enables the use of a new range of biosensors that depends on weak-interactions, which would allow to address a range of diseases, primarily in immunology, that is currently not well understood.

PolyAn offers antifouling coatings for a wide range of plastic consumables. Our proprietary coating reduces biofouling and also cell adsorption on nearly any synthetic surface. Products include cups, 96-well microtiter plates, microfluidic devices and a wide range of customised products.

PolyAn’s antifouling coating is covalently anchored on the base substrate. The surface modifcation is permanent. The autofluorescence and mechanical characteristics of the base substrate are not influenced by PolyAn’s surface modifcation.

Increasing Wettability of Microfluidics

The hydrophilic matrix is covalently anchored on the substrate without increasing the autofluorescence of the base material. The modification is permanent thus ensuring a long shelf-life of the microfluidic device.

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PolyAn is able to optimize nearly all commercially available plastic substrates according to customer specifications. Please do not hesitate to contact us, if you have any questions regarding our surface treatments.