Zwitterionic hydrogel coatings have shown promise in inhibiting the foreign body response and scarring surrounding medical implants. By employing simultaneous photografting and photopolymerization, a durable crosslinked coating can be covalently attached to the polymeric surface. Durable coatings have been formed with both sulfobetaine methacrylate (SBMA) and carboxybetaine methacrylate (CBMA) zwitterionic monomers, using polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) as non-zwitterionic crosslinker. The ratio between crosslinker and zwitterionic monomer can be tuned to balance mechanical durability from crosslinker and antifouling capabilities from zwitterions. With a small (5-10%) amount of crosslinker, films are sufficiently stable and show excellent reduction in fouling such as 90% decrease in cell and protein attachment. Additionally, zwitterionic coatings impart lubricity which can lead to a reduction of up to 95% in the coefficient of friction relative to uncoated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). With incorporation of adequate amounts of crosslinker, zwitterionic monomer, and photoinitiator, the hydrated coating remains attached and viable under significant normal (up to 15 N) and bending (2-32mm diameter rods) forces. Failure due to normal or bending force only begins to occur after drying 80 or 60 minutes, respectively, in ambient conditions for less crosslinked films. Ideal zwitterionic coatings will be durable enough to withstand handling, sufficiently photografted to prevent delamination, increase lubricity for less invasive insertion, and decrease biofouling to limit scar formation. Anti-fibrotic and lubricious coatings on biomedical interfaces, such as cochlear implants, will increase device sensitivity and effectiveness while decreasing surgical complications and adverse reactions.

Durable photografted zwitterionic hydrogel coatings decrease biofouling and friction on biomaterials

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ACS Fall 2022

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